Today marks your 8th birthday. Before you hit 10 and then 13 (and, let’s be honest, start feeling a bit annoyed with us), I thought it was the perfect moment to express just how much you mean to us.
Before you came into our lives, I was indifferent about parenthood. I know it’s not the ideal way to start this message, but stick with me; it gets heartfelt pretty quickly. Becoming a mother was never really part of my plan. I met your dad and never imagined dating him. Then he made me pancakes, and I realized not every guy: 1) listens, 2) cooks, 3) has that charming smile, and 4) appreciates you like he does. That’s when I fell head over heels, and two years later, there you were.
You are truly a blend of your dad and me. While that may not sound significant at first, it encompasses everything that is you. You’re sensitive and fiercely loyal, hilarious and kind, intelligent and creative, wonderfully chubby, athletic, and determined.
As young parents, we were terrified. How would we fit a baby into our lives in our early 20s? How would we come together as a family? How could we give you the love and support we didn’t receive? You know we sometimes miss the mark and disappoint you, but it’s not due to a lack of love. We falter because, well, we’re your parents, and, truthfully, we’re a bit of a mess.
Like that time your dad told you that Jesus was more like a zombie than the son of God. I know you were upset with him that day. Trust me, he frustrates me too—like when he handed me an iTunes gift card for Valentine’s Day (really?) or when he leaves one solitary glass in the sink after I’ve just washed dishes for the umpteenth time.
And remember that trip to New York City with your Girl Scout troop? I yelled at you in front of your friends and dragged you along like you were a little kid again. I know that was rough, but I panicked when I couldn’t find you at the Statue of Liberty. You bring it up often, don’t you? That’s your way of getting back at me. Guilt trip central.
As your parents, we will inevitably mess you up. We will:
- Cause you pain
- Make you cry
- Disappoint you
- Not fulfill all your wishes
- Possibly not pay for your college
- Keep insisting you eat your vegetables
- Yell occasionally
- Turn off the TV
- Challenge you to toughen up
- Expect you to help us when we’re old
- Stumble in our attempts to be the perfect adults
Your dad and I are not wealthy investors; we are dreamers. Our dreams are big, but so are our financial struggles. We hope you learn that love and money are two entirely different things. Only the foolish mix the two.
By laying this all out, we hope to ease the inevitable therapy sessions you’ll have in the future as an adult!
But let me be clear: we are your biggest supporters, your loudest cheerleaders, and your number one fans. You can share anything with us, and our love for you will never waver. We won’t shame you or make you question your worth. We will help you navigate life’s unfairness and the privilege that comes with it. You are our daughter, a testament to our love, passion, and commitment.
We aim to lighten your load, encourage you to take the road less traveled, turn your dreams into opportunities, and spark your imagination.
On this special day, we are just as enamored with you as we were on the first minute of your life. We are proud of you, amazed by your grace, and deeply grateful for the love you give us. You are his “Rock Star” and my “Peanut.” You are our greatest dream. So live boldly, cherish every moment, stand your ground, and become everything you aspire to be.
With all our love,
Mom & Dad
For more insights on parenting and family life, check out our other blog posts, including this one on infertility and pregnancy. If you’re looking into at-home insemination options, we recommend visiting Make a Mom for quality products. Also, for more information on pregnancy and home insemination, the CDC provides excellent resources.
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