My dearest Blake,

I find myself trying to catch my breath as we watch you turn 9 years old today. Your last year as a single digit and before you know it you and I will be navigating the teen years together. I am completely and totally not ready for that, by the way. Please take it easy on me.

This past year it has been such a joy to watch you break out of your shell more. You have made amazing friends at school, you excel at everything you do and you are a favorite among your teachers and other adults. To hear so often how amazing and wonderful your daughter is from other adults is something that every mother wants. I couldn’t ask for more.

Blake, I think what I am most blessed with is that I have another motherly presence in our home. You have a natural gift when it comes to nurturing and watching you with your younger brother and sister oftentimes has me smiling ear to ear. Your patience and your kindness with them is something I treasure and it makes me think forward to the days I will get to watch you with your own children. You will be an amazing mother and a nurturing presence for all of those around you from now until that time. Don’t ever forget how powerful that is. Don’t ever let that piece of you grow dim because it is a true gift. And don’t ever stop being that for your siblings.

You make me want to be a better mother and for that, I am also grateful. Without you knowing it, you push me to remember to speak a little sweeter, be patient a little longer and laugh a little harder. Your free spirit is something I am so lucky to have in my daily life. Thank you for everything that you are and what you bring into all of our lives. It is a rarity and one that I am in awe of daily.

Never forget that you are loved beyond measure, Blake. We love you so very much.

With every part of me and more, 

Mom

(Take a look back at Blake’s 8th birthday, 7th birthday and 6th birthday)