Four years ago today...I met my first born child.

My sweet Malia,

I'll never ever forget the day they laid you on my tummy. I felt your very presence was permeated with heaven's markings. You have taught me oh so much about love, about patience, about myself, about your dad, about the importance of staying teachable, about the fact that indeed there is a God. You have such a strong spirit, sometimes it gets us in trouble because mommy forgets and goes against the grain. I'm pretty sure you've figured it out... your mom's far from perfect. But, I love the times you let us start over; once again teaching me about forgiveness and how to pick up the pieces and try harder the next day. I thank Heavenly Father everyday for giving your father and I the chance to raise you.

Last night you got very nostalgic on me (which is strange because for weeks now you've been lamenting that you were the last of your friends to turn 4). But you, with big alligator tears in your eyes, cried that you were scared of turning 4, scared that 4 is closer to being a mommy yourself, meaning you wouldn't live with us anymore and that was scarry for your little heart. I just want you to know that anytime you feel that way (and trust me, when you get mommy's age birthdays only get more and more hard) you can know that families are forever and if we stay close to the Lord we don't have to live in fear. You are such a bright light in this world, Malia. May you always know how much you are loved. Happy Birthday!!

Love,

Mommy 6 months old
1 year old
Today, 4 years old.

She invited two of her best little girlfriends, Emma and Saige, to go swimming at my cousin Jen's house in Farmington. We soaked up some of the year's last rays and the girls had fun. We finished it off with some slushies from Sonic during happy hour--yeah for half off!