N-I-N-E

Today is the day. Nine years old. Incredible.

And, incredible is the kind of girl you truly are.

You amaze me with your demeanor, your ability to be stoic and mature.

You are clam, responsible and have a presence about you.

At times you are wise beyond your years.

At other times you are wild, loud and playful.

I love all of these times. The serious to the silly.

You are a creator, an inventor.

Your mind works in magical ways.

You think through things and then execute.

It's fun to watch your wheels turn.

From Legos to baking.

You come up with solutions, things I would never even dream.

You have confidence which I admire.

You like what you like.

You don't care what others think.

You are comfortable in your skin.

You are brave and kind.

You are willing to try almost anything.

And you don't need a friend by your side to do it.

You are capable.

Wow, all of this at nine.

Don't get me wrong, there are moments.

Moments of not listening and flat out ignoring.

Moments when you think you know everything and I know nothing.

Moments of weakness, 

but you are nine. 

It's to be expected and it means you are normal, growing.

I am so proud of the person you are.

The person who tests me and pushes my buttons.

The person who challenges me to be better.

The person who I love so much and would do anything for.

Happy Birthday my dear sweet Carmen.

The world is yours.