How are we even here? We have a seven year old, like an official big kid on our hands. I blinked and she’s well on her way toward second grade. We are in the thick of elementary school. Things are a little harder. Friendships, emotions, learning, etc. But this age, you guys, is so amazing. I loved 6 but I think I’ll love 7 even more. As I was thinking of this special date last night the feelings came in like a flood.

It was a cold night in Stillwater, OK on this day 7 years ago. Zack and I were just kids ourselves, working on bringing our first child of our own into this world. I was scared to death of being enough, raising a baby, and being what she needed. Turns out, she was exactly what we needed. We didn’t experience newlywed life alone for very long or get to figure out a marriage with just the two of us. We married in 2011 and she was here in 2012. We all grew up together but I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m so proud of the kind, loving, artistic, cowgirl of mine. She’s brilliant and just as beautiful on the inside as she is out. She made me a mom and I’ll forever be thankful for this unexpected blessing. We often take our kids and being able to have our own for granted and I’m constantly reminded by her to count my blessings.

Paisley you love so big. You always think of others and things in such a unique way. You never judge or discriminate. You remind me to look at the stars and God’s beauty often. You have such humor and love being silly. I am so very proud of you. I hope 7 is the best year yet.

Zack and I got to take cupcakes to her class and eat lunch with her today and we are having a small dinner tonight to celebrate our girl. This year we decided to not have a party but instead invite a few friends to accompany us to the Science Museum.

The sweets were super last minute but I LOVE how they turned out. If you are local to me and need recommendations for bakers, message me! I’d love to pass their information off.

We love you Paisley! Happy Birthday. -Mom