The other night I had to bite my lip to keep from crying when I realized in 10 years she'll be 18 and, under the law, an adult. I think about where I was and who I was at 18 and it makes me determined her life go in a much better direction. I want so much for this child - health, happiness, prosperity, true love - but more than anything I want her to know how much she is loved and appreciated by her parents.
Amelia truly is a good kid. She minds her manners, tries to be of help to others, works hard in school and is seriously loving. Now, I didn't say she was perfect because there's a lot she could work on like: picking up after herself, being more willing to help when asked, being unafraid to stand up for herself and spending less time on the computer and her DSi (which is more on me and Jeff, and we're working on making this happen.).
Knowing my baby is growing up and seeing that she is growing up can be two very different things - for me, at least. However, during this last year there was no way I couldn't have recognized how much she's growing since she has experienced a growth explosion rather than a plain ol' growth spurt.
Amelia has gained both inches and pounds and in the process skipped completely over several sizes of clothes and now finds herself wearing size 12 to 14 girls' clothes. At this rate, I will have to shop in the juniors section this fall for back-to-school clothes!
We've learned this last year that Amelia and her daddy have very similar tastes when it comes to things they find funny. They especially enjoy seeing people crash, seeing people being stupid and hearing people expel gas from either their mouth or booty - which is why their current favorite television shows are "America's Funniest Home Videos," "Dumbest Stuff on Wheels," and "The Simpsons." Additionally, Amelia shares her daddy's love of all things related to science thus why she loves watching with him "Myth Busters," "How It's Made," and anything on the National Geographic Channel.
This last year has also proven to be the time when Amelia realized she has a ready-made playmate in her little sister. I've told Amelia that, more than any other reason, I had Lola for her because I didn't want her to grow up without a sibling like I did. Those words in the past seemed to fall upon deaf ears, but ever since Christmas Amelia and Lola have discovered how wonderful it is to be able to play together.
They don't always get along like peas and carrots, but are learning the gentle art of compromise, getting a handle on conflict resolution and coming to realize momma isn't always going to intervene so they'd better figure out how to manage on their own. I love seeing them as a team and hope their love for and enjoyment of each other continues to grow.
Last year Amelia received a trampoline for her birthday - which has proven to be a good investment since both her and Lola use it a lot. This year we've opted to get her a new bicycle since the one she's been riding is tooooo small for her now. We'd hope to keep it a surprise, but Lola just couldn't wait and let the cat out of the bag the night I brought it home from the store. We've made Amelia wait until today to open it, though, with the hope that she'll at least be surprised by the color and style.
Per her request, I am taking cupcakes, drinks and goodie bags today to her school to be enjoyed with her classmates during snack time. Additionally, we're having her "official" party at a local "bounce house" emporium that has become our favorite spot to have the girls' parties.
I have been blessed with a very special child who brings joy and light to my life with every breath she takes. I am proud to be her momma and so very proud to honor her on her special day.
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| Daddy getting to know his girl on April 20, 2004. |
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| Daddy and his girl ready to hit the town on Feb. 5, 2012. |
