Six

Dear Gianna,

When you were three, everyone around you thought you were five. When you were five, people mistook you for six. Today you turned six, and from the comments we've heard so far, it seems you finally look your age.

Six. Sigh. Where did it go? And how did you get so tall?

You are one of those daughters a mother knows she doesn't deserve. You remind me to be grateful for the gift of motherhood every day, and not take a minute with you for granted.

Your light-hearted, pleasant demeanor is contagious. It is rare not to see a smile on your face. And in this short six years you've become an incredibly lovely girl. You're kind and sweet, generous and thoughtful, grateful and sincere. You help without being asked. If asked your response is "Yes, mother." You want others to be happier than you are, and you often sacrifice to make that happen. It takes an adult most of her lifetime to grow into who you are today.

Quotes of the day:

When you learned this morning that you'd have rain on your birthday you smiled, "That's okay, mama. It's Lent. I'll offer it up." And you meant it.

Tucking you into bed tonight, "I wish everyone could have a birthday every day." When I inquired further, "because then everyone would be as happy as me!".

That would be wonderful, Gianna. I love you, sweetheart. Happy Birthday!