The years seemed to fly by, with many "firsts." First tooth. First Steps. First words. First day of school. It seems like only yesterday, on the first day of Kindergarten, that you marched right into class, refusing to hold my hand, and excitedly looked for your desk. Your enthusiasm was catching. You slowly turned towards me with your eyes shining ever so brightly. "Mama, you can go now." My heart broke a little but I was so proud of you for taking the bull by the horns and jumping in feet first to this new life of yours.

After Kindergarten, it was first grade, then second, third, forth, fifth and then OMG middle school. I am certain that the first day of middle school was much harder on me than you. I worried all day about how you would do. Would you make friends? How would you cope? After all, you were my baby girl. You've never met a stranger. I needn't have worried. You, my bubbly child, fit in like just the last piece of a jigsaw puzzle. You burst through the door when you got home, excitedly relaying to me every single part of your day. I was so relieved. I think in my head I knew it would be that way, but my heart was afraid.

And now? You have graduated from the 8th grade and will be heading off to high school. While I rejoice that you have come so far, I still grieve for the child I have lost. The child that no longer needs me the way she once did. I miss that.

I love you baby girl. I will always love you. Even when you are married and have some children of your own, you will always be my baby girl. I'm so glad you had fun at your 8th grade Prom. I can't wait (even though it hurts) to see what high school brings.

Love,
Mama

Happy Love Thursday everyone.