Dear Sadie, Today You're 8.

 To my Sadie June Bug - 

We celebrated you all weekend long, which is easy to do, because you're YOU.  We had your grandparents over for lunch today and all went around the table sharing what we love about you....

And the first thing that came to my mind was how you've always been a BRIGHT LIGHT in our lives, since the moment you were born 8 short years ago.

You've always had the biggest eyes & biggest heart. 

This year, you were the first Xenos girl to win Super Citizen at your school & the award you one was all about being a great friend.  You go out of your way to make sure everyone knows they are loved by you.  

You never leave anyone out, including your little sister who drives you crazy some days.

You always put others first...and sometimes, I worry that you forget about your needs. 

Over the past 6 months, you've been more expressive than ever before and it's not always been the happy stuff we're used to with our Sadie girl.

But I know this is just you finally finding your voice after all these years.  

Growing up with a big sister AND a little sister, I'm sure you sometimes feel lost in the middle (literally).

But I hope you always know that Dad and I always SEE and ADORE YOU.

On your good days and your more challenging days.

You get hot quickly, but you calm down just as quickly.  You always say you're sorry when you say things that are unkind without me prompting you.

That's what shows me that my mommy heart doesn't need to worry about you & your big feelings you've been navigating lately.

I know you'll work thru this phase because you've always been wise beyond your years.

I love your sweet smile with your missing front tooth.

I love your sense of style including always having your lipstick on point! 

I love how you play with your little sister because you know it means the world to her.

I love how you fiercely defend Lara, even when it's to the (much) bigger bullies on the bus.  You have no fear and I hope you never lose that!  

I am so, so proud to be your mom and I'm thankful every single day that he gave me YOU.

I love you, little chicken nugget.  Always and forever!

I was so excited to have a December baby, so as a sweet gift, your dad gave me a snowglobe with a picture of me kissing your tiny, newborn nose.  On it's engraved, " If kisses were snowflakes, I'd give you a blizzard."  

Sweet girl, I'll give you blizzards of kisses as long as you'll let me. 

Love you, baby!!

Love, Mom