Adelaide

Sweetheart, you don't know this, but I check on you just about every night before I go to sleep. Every so often I discover a small need that I get to meet, like fixing your blanket or moving you away from the edge. Most nights though, I just spend a moment watching you sleep, and each and every time I feel inexplicable joy.

You are my precious daughter, and you are unlike anyone else that I know. I love the games and stories that we have created, the art classes and the soccer games. I love that you see my neckties as perfect belts for your budding fashion sense, evidence that you already have more style than me.

I love your bedtime prayers, how you thank God for making the people you love, and how you pray for the things we all long for; no fighting, no sickness, more friendship and more desserts.

You're a passionate soul, and as you enter into your sixth year, I'm struck with how much you are growing up and how evident it is in the way you handle your feelings (and interactions with your big brother). I'm proud of you for continuing to work toward respect in frustrating moments, and for being willing to do things that are not always your first choice.

It's also a joy to me to see your love for your baby brother. You are a great big sister to him, and he has learned a lot already just from all of the time you have spent loving on him.

Mommy and I are so grateful for who you are and the beautiful spirit that you bring to our family. I love you from here to the moon and all the way to the cabin.

Daddy