The girls

I missed Princess' birthday post, and this post is early for Sweet Pea, but I wanted to be sure that they each had a post from me. So like the days when I used to combine their birthday parties into one big celebration, I am doing a combined birthday post for them now ...

Dear girls,

Where does the time go? I look at you, and see all the wonder the future holds for you. I see the children that you were, the kids you are now, and I am starting to glimpse the women you will become.

Princess -

You turned 13 last month. How did that happen? When did a round cheeked talkative kindergartner become a beautiful teenager full of ambition, dreaming of Broadway, singing her way through her day?

You've overcome so much in the past few years to be the confident young lady you are now. I know how much that straight A report card meant to you. I know how much courage it took to audition for Eastern CT regional chorus. I can see your self-esteem growing with each accomplishment, and my heart swells when I see the brightness in your brown eyes, the seeds of doubt lessening with each success. There will be days when things don't come as easily, so I hope you remember the times you made it, you did it, you reached your goal. And know that I am here, cheering you on.

And yes, I do think the braces will come off before you start high school.

Sweet Pea -

In two days you will be 10. Double digits. A tween.

Fifth grade suits you. I see you on the brink of the journey your sister has already started, yet still holding on to those childhood loves that will make you so happy.

Keep building those Lego towers.

Keep playing Club Penguin.

Keep giving me a hug and kiss good night.

I've stopped holding your hand, but I will always hold your heart.

And no matter how crazy it makes me, I promise not to cut your bangs so they can finish growing out.

I love you girls -

Love always,

Mom