A Decade In: Parenting

10 years old. My daughter turns 10 years old today. MY. DAUGHTER. 10 YEARS OLD. 

No matter how many times I say it still doesn't seem real. How in the world has 10 years gone by so fast? I remember the moment that they placed Phi in my arms for the first time. I was terrified. I had no idea if I could really be a good parent to her. Fast forward 10 years and really I am still not sure if I am doing this right but that tiny baby is now 10 years old and a really awesome person. We must be doing something right. 

My Dupie, My Lovie,

Your Poppa and I know that being the first born is not easy. (We are both 1st born kids.) We really are learning everything as we go along. Everyday we hope that we are doing the right thing. We know that we have taken a different path when it comes to your education. It has not been easy and we know at times it's frustrating but just know that we do it because we love you so much. Because we want to be around you and with you. We only have so many years with you in our home and we want to spend as much time as we can with you. We got really lucky to have a kid like you. You are so smart, funny, talented and creative and I hope that you know how proud we are of you. We are very very proud of you and we love you so much. All the time. Every second of everyday. Happy 10th Birthday. Let the tween years begin! 

And of course, Happy Birthday to my main squeeze. (That's right they have the same birthday!) My handsome, rugged man. I am so grateful to have been able to spend the last 12 of your birthdays with you. I love you so much and the crazy hectic life we have made. You are the laughter and adventure in my life. I know I can never top your birthday gift 10 years ago but the fact that you don't have to be the center of attention, even on your birthday, is the gift that keeps on giving. Happy Birthday!

I love you both like crazy!