For You, Baby Girl...

Precious Taylor,

Today is your birthday. You are, in fact, now 13 and can officially be classified as a teenager. Though I've known this day was coming, it's still a shock to my system because - in my mind - you're still a baby.

So much has changed for you - and our family - in the past year. Most of it (this time around) has been incredibly positive and I'm so very thankful for you. Each and every day. To be quite frank, though, this is a rough age. And middle school can bring a young lady (and her mom) to her knees before one can blink.

Because of this - and several conversations I've had with you lately - I feel the need to reiterate a few points...

Know, my darling, that I am and will forever be on your side. No questions. I may not like the decisions you make all the time (and there may be repercussions) but there is not a thing in this world you could ever do to make me love you any less. You have my heart. My whole heart. And that will never change.

I've said before - and will continue to tell you until I no longer have air in my lungs - that I owe you more than you could ever know. There are so many things you don't know about your mom (and for good reason) but know this, my dear: you have saved me from myself more times than it's possible to count. You kept me going in the darkest and most difficult times. You are my light. And my world.

Life is tough. There is no sugarcoating it, darling. But you are one of the toughest young ladies I know and there is absolutely no doubt in my mind you can (and will) achieve anything you set your mind on...and regardless of what you say all the time, you are CRAZY SMART!!!

You are one of the coolest and quirkiest people I know, Taylor. Honestly. You keep me in stitches most of the time and there's no one whose company I enjoy more than yours. Your love for your friends, animals of all kinds and people in general amazes me. You did not get that compassion from me. But I am better because of it. And you.

Your willingness to tackle any new challenge (who else could talk me in to a goat?) takes us on journeys I could never have dreamed. I love this about you. And I'm so proud of you that I could literally burst on any given day.

Thirteen years ago today, you came into this world as a 7 pound 6 ounce bundle. You made me a mom.  In an instant. And I have no greater joy, no bigger responsibility and no higher priority.

I don't know what year 13 will bring, precious girl, but I know - without a doubt - that it will be fun. Memorable. Exciting. Humorous. Completely unpredictable. And more special than I can imagine.

Because those are all of the things I see in you...