Olivia - Ten Years

Dear Olivia,

In some ways it is hard to believe that you have been on the earth for ten years. So much has happened in those ten years, and you have faced each unexpected turn with courage. You have been at the forefront of it all in many ways, understanding in a way that has amazed me continually. Many times I have had to remind you to just be a child, and let mommy be the adult - even though you have shown responsibility beyond your years over and over again.

I know I have been hard on you, but you need to know that I admire you in so many ways. I hope I tell you how much I love you enough, and that you can feel that love. So much of what I have to say to you is beyond the limits of a blog, so I have written you a letter in my journal, which I will share with you when the time is right.

I am so happy you are loving ELP this year - what a blessing for you. Continue to shine - my incredible, bright, nurturing, fiercely independent star.

Here's a picture from each year of your life so far: 1999-2009

Love,
Mom


Dec. 1999 - Days after you were born



2000 - Trip to California



2001 - Such a great big sister!

2002 - First Fall in North Carolina



2003 - Warm December in North Carolina



2004 - Vancouver with Uncle Jack



2005 - End of soccer season in North Carolina



2006 - Reading to Grace



2007 - You are baptized!



2008 - Not so little any more

2009 - Ten!