Today she is seven. We’re big on birthdays in this family, but after this year, this birthday feels even more important.

I love watching her grow. I sat her in my lap tonight and told her that when she was a baby, I wanted her to stay little forever, but that every year she’s proved that as she grows, she’s even better than the last. Spending time with her is genuinely wonderful, and so rewarding. Watching her grow into a kind, curious, creative person is such a gift.

I love being her mom, and I can’t wait to see who she becomes in her seventh year on this planet.