Sweet 16

When a child has a birthday,
it is such a bittersweet event.
It seems, though, that some
are just a bit more bittersweet than others.
Today is like that...
For 15 years, we've watched
as our child has faced and surpassed milestones.
We've witnessed physical changes, intellectual changes,
emotional changes, and, of course, spiritual changes.
All have been such blessings.

For 15 years, we've watched our little girl
gradually leaving childhood behind
as she makes her way toward adulthood.
She's almost there.

As I see the baby, the child-likeness,
in her face becoming more woman-like,
it does something to the heart...
saying good-bye to what you've known.

But in that good-bye, there is a sweet and dear welcoming.
And somewhere along the way,
you become more...
you reach an even deeper level of motherhood...
you grow as a "cheerleader" and prayer warrior...
you become a close confidant, an influence and counselor...
you become a lifelong friend.


Happy Birthday to my daughter, my friend.
More than a mother can express in words,
I love you, Ally.