The Bakers Adventures

Happy 9th birthday, my miracle girl.

My firstborn, my heart in human form. From the moment I first held you in my arms, I knew you were special. You were the start of everything. The beginning of this incredible journey of motherhood. You are my apple, not far from my tree, and yet, entirely your own person. I see so much of myself in you. Your energy (or lack of), your passion (or lack of), your deep feelings (far from lacking).. but, I also see so many things that are entirely, uniquely Erin. And isn’t that what being a parent is about? Helping your child grow into someone far beyond what you could have ever imagined or dreamed.

Erin, you’re goofy and silly, and every time you giggle uncontrollably, I see a glimpse of your Daddy’s playfulness shining through. It’s one of the best things about him, and now about you too. It’s like you’ve realised not to sweat the small stuff so much anymore.. You’re learning to let go of the things that don’t matter, finding calm where there used to be storms. I can see the shift in you. Albeit, it’s only been recent. The way you try to manage those moments when you feel overwhelmed, the way you’re learning that the further you let yourself go, the harder it is to find your way back. Everything I thought we’d wasted time practising, is now serving you. I’m so glad I didn’t quit. It’s so easy to quit when the world around you tells you your too much and trying to hard. It’s as if you’re discovering that those moments aren’t ours to carry anymore, but yours to master. And slowly, piece by piece, you’re doing just that..

You’re beginning to laugh at yourself in the most beautiful way. It’s not forced or fleeting; it’s real and kind. You’re starting to be gentler with yourself, more accepting of who you are. I can’t tell you how much this makes my heart swell with pride. Because this, this love and acceptance of yourself is the key to everything. The key I’ve been searching 32 years for and in your glory, you’ve already found it.

It’s my greatest wish for you this year that as you head nearer double digits, you do so with confidence, understanding, and love for yourself and the relationships around you.

You’ve always had to try harder than most to find your place, to fit in, to feel like you belong. And I know it hasn’t always been easy. I know because I’ve felt a fierce level of protection and defence around topics involving you that I’ve never needed to feel around your sister. But you keep trying, Erin. You work so hard, harder than most, and that takes a strength and courage that not everyone sees. But I see it. Daddy sees it. We both do. And we couldn’t be prouder. You amaze us every day with the way you navigate the world. With effort, determination, and that huge heart of yours that cares so deeply for others even if it isn’t understood and always accepted by them.

I’ll never forget how, even at such a young age, you’ve always had such a strong conscience, a way of seeing things so clearly, of understanding people. Although learning what do this with this insight is something still to develop… as you grow, I can see that incredible strength softening into kindness and self-awareness. You are finding your way and I want you to know that we see how hard you’re trying.. and it’s enough. You are enough, just as you are.

This year, my hope for you is simple. That you continue to believe in yourself. That you keep laughing at the little things, that you keep learning that the tough moments are yours to manage and you are more than capable of doing just that. ( knowing we are right there with you). You’ve shown us already how strong you are, Erin.

And I want you to know how loved you are. Not just by me, or Daddy, or Pearly, but by everyone who knows you. You bring something special to the world.. something kind, something silly, something uniquely Erin. Never lose that.

Happy birthday, my big-hearted, bright-eyed girl. You are everything I dreamed of and more, and I am so lucky to be your Mummy.

All my love and wishes for a lifetime of adventure,

Mama

xo