To my daughter on your 9th birthday!

I know I say this every year, but I really can’t believe how much you’ve grown! 

You’ve turned 9! And what a beautiful one it is as you keep reminding us that it’s a Golden one – 9 on 9/9.

What a fantastic privilege it is to watch as you’re growing, maturing & becoming your own wonderful person. I am so grateful for you! 

It has been another amazing year with some difficult challenges along the way but you handled it all with good grace & a level of maturity that has evaded even some adults. 

We lost your second grandpa this year 💔  but you dealt with your grief in a way that surprised me. I remember you giving me cuddles when I couldn’t hold myself together & you reminding me that grandpa is in a better place & watching over us too. I’m forever grateful for those moments of love & support from you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! 

Going to Nigeria for the first time ever for Grandpa’s celebration of life also means that you made it to your 10th country! 

For country 9, you amazed me with how you immersed yourself into all the culture & especially learning about various artwork at the many museums we visited including the VGM – can you guess the country & museum?  Yes a little quiz for you when you eventually read this. 😆😉😘

You’ve continued to excel at school, sports and all your activities for which I say, “well done & keep it up.” 🙌👏👌

As you go into this new year, I want you to always remember:

1. You are amazing.

2. There is always a solution to every problem.

3. Breathe, don’t panic.

4. Enjoy your soft life to the fullest but don’t be lazy.

5. You can do all things through Him who strengthens you!

6. There’s always time for cuddles.

7. Love you to the moon & back!

8. Keep being  yourself & not what others want you to be.

9. Don’t let anyone dull your sparkle – not even you! 

Happy Golden birthday to my genius baby, the soft life queen & drama princess! 

9 on 09/09

Love always,

Crummy!