9 Years Ago Today...

Today is Morgan's 9th birthday (and cousin Jax's 1st birthday too--Happy B-day Jax). I've been filled with emotion today realizing that today is not only Morgan's birthday, but the aniversary of the day I became a mom. I took this job nine years ago today, and while it is often exhausting, I'm so grateful to have such a rewarding and meaningful job (even though it's often hard to stay focused on the rewarding and meaningful part when the daily chores and errands demand so much attention). Just nine years ago Morgan was a tiny newborn infant in my arms. I had no clue what kind of kid she'd be--or even what she'd really look like. And now I look at her in amazement thinking, "how did I get so lucky to raise you?" At conferences her teachers give me so much credit for the wonderful kid she is, but the secret is that it's just how she came. She's intelligent, driven, self-motivated, goal-orriented, faithful, kind, athletic, responsible, respectful, creative, artistic, funny, energetic, happy, stylish, beautiful...and the list goes on. She's made motherhood so rewarding for me, and made me feel like I'm really good at it--even when I know so much of it is just her. She makes me look good. She makes being a mom the best job in the world.

I was ready to have a panic attack today when it occured to me that this 9-year old birthday represents the mid-point of the years Morgan will spend living at home. Nine years from now we'll be saying goodbye as she heads off to college. The last nine years sped by so quickly, I can only imagine how soon her 18th birthday will arrive--especially as her life gets busier and revolves less around me and more around friends and activites. I can't believe we are halfway "done" and that we only "get" her home with us for 9 more years. It is really starting to set in that kids grow up way to quickly. Everyone always says to enjoy it while it lasts, the meaning of that statement is really begining to sink in.

I love you Mor Mor. Happy Birthday!