To My Girl

Lyla,

You are 6 months old. I can't believe how fast the time has gone. You, my sweet, have made my life complete. I am grateful every day that God chose me to be your mommy. When I look back on my life, you will be one of my greatest accomplishments. I never knew that loving you would come so easily. It is true what they say, "you never understand the Father's love until you become a parent yourself."

It is hard to believe that this time last year I didn't even know if you were a Lyla or a Landon, but I knew I loved you. I couldn't have imagined then that I would love you so much more day after day. Your smiling face and delightful laugh are the perfect end to my days. There is something so special about being your mommy. I love that just seeing me walk through the door is enough to bring a smile across your face and a squeal from your lips. The bond you and I have is beyond understanding.

I am so proud of all you have already accomplished. You took your sweet time coming into the world (9 and a half months), but you haven't stopped since you got here. In the past six months you have learned to roll and gave up your swaddle before I expected. You have learned to sleep through the night (most of the time). You have grown two teeth, found your voice, learned to sit and to crawl. You pull up on everything you get your hands on and have already attempted to take assisted steps. You love your solid foods, especially the vegetables. You have struggled with reflux, but are still working on gaining weight. You go to all of mommies football games. You love the sounds, the lights and the sequins. Just like your mommy. You will smile at anyone who looks your way and your LOVE the camera.

I am so excited to see what the next 6 months will bring, but feel free to take your time. I hope you enjoy being a child. Mommy loves to look at the world through your child like eyes. Everything is new and exciting.

Thank you for bringing joy to my life. I pray you will love life. That you will find joy in all that you do. I pray that you will always know you are a child of God and that he will hold you your whole life. I hope you continue to find pure joy in books and in learning. Whether you become a dancer, a singer, an athlete or valedictorian, I will always be proud of you.

So here's to you my sweet. Happy half birthday.