Turning 8

8 years ago today we were blessed with a sweet baby girl that we named Cienna Elise. At 8lbs 10oz, I have to admit the thought crossed my mind that you would have your father's physique and that as a result you may have to live with us forever. Now here we are 8 years later and all that crosses my mind is how I never want you to leave. Where has the time gone? How is it that you are now 8 years old? Why can't I turn back time? Until you are a parent you will never know what a catch 22 this is for me. How it pains me to see you grow up in what seems like the blink of an eye...yet all I want in life is to watch you grow up and be happy and find your way. We can't have it both ways. It is the painful part of parenthood. The joy and the sorrow in celebrating each and every birthday with a child that you love more than yourself.

But enough about me and my emotions! For you, today was a fantastic day! You turned 8! You were showered with love and (maybe) too many gifts and the amount of text messages and e-mails that came through for you (on my phone) was astonishing. If you ever feel unloved or just plain ordinary ask me how many adults with busy lives and kids of their own remembered your birthday and you will understand how truly special you are!

At 8 Years Old You Love:

Gymnastics
Horseback Riding
Skiing
The TV Shows "Austin & Ally" , "American Idol" , and "Project Runway"
Drawing
American Girl Doll Everything
Reading Chapter Books
School
Dancing
Playing "Monopoly" and "Life"
Going To The Mall
Spending The Night At Your Grandparents Houses
You Still Love Your "B" And Told Me The Other Day That You Will Go To College With It
Clothes
Your Best Friends Are Payton, Mikayla and Amelie
Your Favorite Color Is White
You Want To Be A Ballet Teacher In New York City When You Grow Up
You Are Smart, Caring, Kind And Want To Do It All! You Are Everything That I Hoped You Would Be And More! Happy Birthday Baby Girl!