A Decade of Delicious Drama

Dear Miss Essie,

10 years ago today you changed my life forever. You made me a mom.

At first you weren't too sure about the idea:

But what girls doesn't want her first outfit in life to be Camo?:

But see... then Mommy started picking out your clothes and.. okay, you don't
really look happier, but you DO look cuter!!!!

See!! Finally that smile!!

If only I had known how telling this picture would be. You in all your stuff animals... if you did that today they would drown you. It's SAFE to say stuffed animals are by FAR your favorite thing.

Look at you... driving your first 'Vette!! Gosh... I just realized we're closer to you getting your drivers license than we are to when to when this picture was taken.

Such a proud fisher-girl!! I wish I had a picture of the bass you caught!!

You've been a dress up girl for forever... of course I see visions of the future here. You used to tell me you were never getting married. I've noticed lately you're starting to change your tune.

I know your sister drives you crazy. But take time to cherish her. You are such a good big sister when you want to be... and she just adores you.

You do love her, you know.

Here's your first day of school. We sure didn't know what kind of a roller coaster school would be for you. I KNOW it's hard, but I also know you are SOOOOOOOO smart, and you can DO IT!! I believe in you Baby!!!!

You have such a great sense of humor. You're quirky and understand sarcasm better than most adults I know. I LOVE your view of the world.

Oh Essie... yes... hands down one of my all time favorite pictures of you....

You're changing so much... inside and out... you are truly beautiful. Your inner beauty shows in the glow on your face. I know you don't believe me sometimes... but you ARE beautiful - in ALL the ways that matter.

We don't always see eye to eye, do we sweetie? So often I wish I could say yes when I have to say no. I hope you realize someday that I'm always trying to do what's best for you... what will best help you grow into a successful adult.

Here you are sweetie... this picture is so you.. the drama... the laughter... the over the top. I don't know what the world holds for you my sweet girl. But I know 2 things for sure. Jesus, who lives in your heart, loves you far more than I ever can. He wants the best for you, and I pray that you'll open your heart to whatever that is. The second thing I know for sure is that I LOVE YOU. I love the little girl you were, and I love the young lady you are becoming. It is an HONOR to be your mom. I Love You. Thank you for making me a mom.

Happy Birthday!

(The purple font color today is in honor of Essie... since it's her favorite color. And for the Minnesota Vikings who are leading their division.. ha ha)
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I know... I added a song. I promise I won't always have one... but this is Essie's and my song....