Double-digits.

Dear Melina, 

The 10-day countdown to 10 is over and you, sis, are officially DOUBLE DIGITS. Two numbers instead of one. We’ve been celebrating this day for over a week and now that it’s here my heart is full of joy and excitement for you, but I can’t help but feel a bit sad for the decade that is over. You’ve slowly been turning into a pre-teen and pushing us away a little more each day as you find your independence. The days of snuggling at bedtime are dwindling causing me to want to hold on tight every time you grab my hand. 

Where has the time gone? One thing I know with absolute certainty is that I could not be prouder of the young woman you are becoming.

Melina, you are fierce and bold. Since you were born, you’ve marched to your own beat, and I admire how you don’t let others change your path. You are naturally athletic and a leader, but you’ve shied away from being an athlete season after season. Something switched this soccer season though. The competitor in you surfaced and things clicked. Every time you stepped onto the field, determination and drive were written all over your face. It didn’t matter if you played offense or defense, you were a bull ready to fight. It’s the second season in a row that you had a hat trick and you may have reminded your brother once too many times of your accomplishment. I am so thankful you’ve found a love for a game that your dad loves just as much. Watching the two of you strategize is my favorite part of the game. Sis, I truly love to watch you play.

Ever since you were a baby, you’ve worn your emotions on your sleeve. You’re a perfectionist by nature and in some ways it’s been a blessing (thank you for always making your bed and cleaning your room). In other ways, it’s been a curse. Failure is not in your vocabulary, and your world is often black and white. You are often your own worst critic and harder on yourself than anyone else ever could be. Please always remember that sometimes being strong means recognizing you need help and allowing people to help you. This does not make you a failure and it does not mean you aren’t smart or good enough. You can and will fail when you try things throughout life. I pray that you allow yourself to ask and receive help so you can learn and grow from those experiences. I pray that you remember that you are never alone in your worries, fears or struggles. 

Sis, you are strong willed and I even though I love it, your stubbornness drives me and your dad crazy. I’m so thankful you have this quality and know, without a doubt, that it will serve you well especially as you get older. However, do not allow your stubbornness to cloud your heart. Use your strong will to make changes in the world and to always stand up for what is right and always use it for good.

There are days that I just sit in my office across from your room and listen to the giggles coming from your conversations. I marvel at the simplicity of your friendships and how much mutual love and respect there are amongst your core group. You are so incredibly blessed with real friendships. I watch you and your bestie and pray that the foundation the two of you have built remains strong throughout your childhood and into adulthood. I hope you always cherish the friendships you are blessed to have because lifelong friendships are a gift that few are given.

Sis, I love watching you grow. You are so beautiful and full of life. As you get older, there will be times you will feel like giving up or feel discouraged. I hope you always remember that your dad and I are here for you. There is nothing you can do to lose our love for you. 

Happy birthday, my little lady! 

I love you to the moon and back to the moon and back.

XOXO,
Mom