Today, Summer turns seven. All my girls are dear to me but Summer coming into my life is significant in its own way because she is my first child — my first pregnancy, first birthing experience, first one to test and stretch my abilities as a parent, first one to help me discover what I am really capable of as a mother.
Summer has always been a difficult little rugrat and she always pushed the limits. As a baby and toddler, she was like a little fireball — full of energy, all over the place, always getting herself into some kind of trouble. I remember she would often force her round little body into corners and crevices around the house where she would eventually get herself stuck. It was hilarious but it also caused me and Kayo a lot of stress.
It just so happens that the most difficult things about Summer are the very same things that make her such a great child. She is inquisitive, creative and passionate. She feels things very intensely. When she’s upset, it’s as if we’ve come to the end of all. But when she’s happy, she lights up and burns as bright as the sun — It’s infectious!
I mean it when I say there is never a dull moment with Summer. She is full of ideas and stories and fire. Yes, she wears me down completely, brings me to my knees in frustration and is the first one who has ever made me feel like I truly suck at being a Mom. But she is also the one who constantly puts me in line, keeps me real and makes me face the messy facts of motherhood head on. She gives me reason to live and to conquer. She makes me feel raw and truly alive.
I am thankful for the last seven years of motherhood and all that it has taught me. I am thankful for Summer, my first born, and our journey together. I look forward to growing and learning together with her but I am also excited to see her grow as her own person, to flourish and make her mark.
Happy Birthday, Summer! Thank you for forgiving and accepting me always and always. I love you and you will always be my sunshine. 🖤
Leave a Reply