Dear Claire Bear

This lovely lady is five today!

I cannot believe I have a five year old!  How did that happen??  We had fun celebrating her as a family on Sunday.. more to come on that later.  For now, I just want to share some thoughts with my sweet first born.

Claire Bear,

Happy 5th Birthday!  You seem so grown up to me these days but it's still hard to believe how big you are getting.  You have been the sweetest addition to our lives and I'm so thankful I get to be the one you call 'Mommy'!  Since your early and difficult arrival, you have kept us on our toes!  God has used your life to teach me diligence and perseverance and continues to teach me to trust Him more.  I just want to hold on tight and protect you from this crazy world.  The silly thing about that is that I can never protect you the way God can.  I'm learning to trust Him. 

There are so many things I love about you.  You are such a sweet, sweet girl.  You love so well and you bring so much joy to those around you.  You are a good friend and I love watching you play with other kids and seeing you adapt to the interests of others.  Since you were a little girl, you have always been so good at sharing.  You love to share your toys, art stuff, and even special treats with others.  I know how hard that can be but you do it so well!  You are generous, responsible, artistic, affectionate, smart, and kind.  As you grow, it's so fun to see your interests and talents develop.  I can't wait to see what God does with your life!  

I love you dearly and pray everyday that God will use me to point you to Him.  

Love you so,

Mommy xoxo