A Letter To My Ellie Paige

Today is your fourth birthday. For four years, you’ve rocked our world and transcended the boundaries of so many things I did not realize were possible. My sweet girl, as you teeter on the brink of girlhood, it’s become evident that these years will soon be as distant a memory as your chubby thighs and toothless smiles.

You grew so much this year. You excelled in school. You are inventive and curious and brilliant. You love building and are so creative about each and every project. When we ask what you are working on, it’s a “skyscraper in New York City” or “a hotel with a rooftop pool”, or “a hospital for babies.”

You are also hilarious. You leave us in tears most of the time from your hysterics and classic one-liners that have been affectionately entitled “Ellie-isms.” Sometimes the things that come out of your mouth stun us, and we don’t know whether to discipline you or praise each other for raising such an awesome kid.

Most importantly, you are kind and compassionate. This is what we love most about you. You love taking care of others, you show sincere concern when someone is hurting. You are a great friend, an invaluable helper and bring so much love to so many people.

You had a big year. Daddy took you skiing,  you rocked your first ballet recital, experienced your first Phish show, became a roller coaster fanatic and retained your title of the ultimate beach baby.

You became a big sister, a role you wholeheartedly took on and continue to excel at every day. Mira is so lucky to have and be loved by you. You are and will be such an incredible influence in her life.  Always remember that if you show her respect, so will others.  You are such a courageous little girl, we know that you will have no problem leading the charge.  

This past year has been filled with many moments of pure joy, excessive laughter and of course — challenges.

You may not have known, but this was a very tough year for Mommy and Daddy. One day, when you are older, we will explain why, but for now we want you to understand something. There were many days this year where there were more tears than smiles and more darkness than light. There was one thing that made that better, and that one thing was you.

You were and are our unwavering source of strength. You put our entire world into perspective and for that, your Daddy and I will always be grateful.  Thank you for teaching us so much about life, hope and perseverance.

You were given a gift, just like your sister, to have the ability to change the world, and we have no doubt you will do just that.

While I know we still have a few years until the crayons and dance parties and bedtime cuddles are replaced by makeup and crushes and Snapchat (Lord help me), I’m sure I’ll barely blink an eye before those years arrive. If there is anything being a parent has taught me, it’s how quickly our precious time flies by. You have to hang on and be present for every moment.

Watching you grow into this amazing person is a feeling like no other. Thank you for giving us that. 

Happy 4th Birthday my sweet girl. I love you to the moon and back.

Love,

Mommy