Dear Mya,

Dear Mya,

You came into this world 11 years ago. But you entered my world almost 12 years ago. The day I found out you were growing inside of me was such a joyful day! It was the day of Ella’s 2nd birthday party, just one month after losing a precious baby.

I had been feeling lousy for a few days and then decided to take a pregnancy test. I couldn’t believe it when it was positive. The doctors said it would be at least a few months before we could conceive again. So when I saw that plus sign on the test, I was very surprised.

You were very calm growing inside of me. Your heart rate was so low in the beginning and my doctor was concerned. But once you were born, it all made sense. You were a very calm baby both inside my stomach and out in the world. Later in my pregnancy I had to have some special tests to determine your size. My doctor wasn’t sure that you were growing enough. It was scary but after getting all checked out, you were as healthy as can be. You have always been just right, just the way you were designed to be.

Now it’s 11 years later and you are so close to middle school! This birthday has certainly been different in quarantine. Although it’s had it’s drawbacks, I believe it is one that you will never forget. How on earth could you forget Bieber wearing a mask pulling up to your house? (Thank to Aunt Amanda) That’s one for the books!

18 cars total paraded in front of our house to wish you a Happy Birthday. It was like a drive-by birthday party. You got cards, gifts, signs, balloons, songs and chats with loved ones. I know you loved it and it brought tears to my eyes. Watching the parade of cars come by our house not once but twice to celebrate you touched my heart and made it swell.

They came for you to express their love and care for you. You impact lives. Everyone you come in contact with is better because of you. I see it with my own eyes daily and I saw it on Saturday.

The morning of your birthday you handed me a note. It said,

Thank you for helping me my whole life. A whole 11 years 🙂 I love you so much!

Thank you for those unforgettable words. They mean more to me than I can say. Nana always says that one of the hardest things about being a parent is that you don’t get your report card until long after you have done your work. As a mom I often wonder if I am doing the right thing and if I am reaching you.

You have always been a girl of few words, generally not wanting to talk a whole lot. For a mom who is a talker, that can be tough at times. I am very curious about what goes on inside your head and your heart. Watching you grow into the young women that you have been created to be is very special for me. I feel so proud and inspired by you. If I were 11 right now, I would totally want to be your friend!

Thank you Mya for an amazing 11 years. I can’t wait to continue the journey and adventure with you for the next 11.

Love,

Mom