And, today she's nine. - Kylee Broughton

Dear Lila,

I smile as I type this because this is going to be the first blog post that you’ve ever read on my blog.

This is a big deal!

I’ve been writing stories about you since the day I found out you were in my belly. (I actually started writing this blog in 2006. Three years before you were born. But that’s another story…)

Oh, Lila… I was so excited to be your Mom.

There’s an expression that people use, they say that they are “over the moon” about something. It means they were really, really, really happy about something. I was over MANY moons when I found out I was going to be your Mommy.

You were like the best present… ever.

From the earliest moment, before you were born, I began preparing for you.

I wrote to you.

I talked to you while you were in my belly.

I sang to you.

I dreamed of the life you’d have.

I prayed for you.

I wondered what color hair you would grow to have, and what color eyes… Would you look like me, or would you favor Daddy?

Would you be quiet and introspective, or loud and silly?

Who would you be?

More than anything, Lila Ross, I couldn’t wait to hold you in my arms.

And the moment I met you, my heart exploded into a million tiny pieces. It was like my body couldn’t hold the amount of love that I had for you. It just spilled out everywhere.

You were a sweetie pie of a baby.

I was excited each morning that I would get to see you and hold you.

Your little voice, your little laugh… that smile.

You brought me so much joy, Lila.

(You brought your Daddy joy, too.)

Lila, you still bring us such joy.

Everyday I love picking you up from school because I love seeing your face.

Seeing you smile makes my heart burst.

Hearing you read out loud, heart bursting.

When I see you help your sister, or do something kind, or say something thoughtful – more bursting of the heart.

Lila, you’re an intelligent and strong and kind young lady.

You are creative and fun.

You are STRONG.

You are capable.

(This means that I *know* you can do anything you set your mind to.)

How do I know this?

Because I can do anything, your Nana could do anything, your Mimi can do anything and the women in our family? We can do anything we choose to do.

Lila, on this day I celebrate what a remarkable young lady you are.

You have grown so much this year.

You are lovely.

You are fancy. (smiling?)

You are sweet.

You are talented.

You are kind.

You have empathy.

And you matter.

We love you just as you are.

Now, getting older isn’t going to be easy all of the time. There will be instances when you’re totally confused about how you should act or what you should do. It’s normal.

Just ask me. I’m here to help you. I’m like those helpers at Disney who stand in front of the attractions and help you get in and out rides smoothly… Keep your arms and legs in the vehicle at all times, and we’ll be fine.

Step out of line and there will be trouble. 🙂

Seriously, Lila. I love you.

To the moon and back a bazillion times.

I am so proud of you.

Happy, happy birthday, my pickle.

Love,

Mommy (And Daddy, too.)

Each year I ask you a few questions.

Here are your answers for this year.

Wednesday, June 20th. 9:24 pm.

What’s your name?

Lila

How old are you?

Nine, well I’ll be turning 9.

What is the year?

Like right now? 2018.

What grade are you in?

Third, passing to fourth.

What is your favorite color?

Aqua.

What is your favorite food?

Sushi, pancakes, obleas. An oblea is a wafer with caramel in the middle that I get at the cafeteria.

What is something that you’re proud of?

Getting my first medal at karate.

What is your favorite book?

Geronimo Stilton and the Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls.

Do you like to speak in Spanish or in English?

Spanish. No offense. In Spanish I can speak faster.

Do you like where you live?

Yes. I do not want to move. I like it because when I grow up I want to live in the same place and if I move to the United States I won’t be able to speak Spanish.