By Jennifer Newell
Dear Maggie,
I can’t believe you are five! Time is flying by and I need to share. So, there are a few things you need to know.
First, even though I may act like I’m in charge and know everything, I don’t! From the moment they handed you to me, we’ve had to figure this out together. Your daddy is a wonderful help and he encourages me, but daily I learn something new. I learn things about you and, in turn, learn something about me. The learning makes me a better mommy.
Second, I like to have fun! Even if you think that all I want to do is clean up and get things accomplished, I actually like to kick back and just have a good time. I like to dance around the living room (even though you are starting to wince when I do this), and I like to sing at the top of my lungs when I’m driving you to school. I do often have things to get done, but I want to make more of an effort to have fun with you. You are so much fun to be around, and I don’t want to miss out on the best things in life with you.
Third, we are so much alike. We look alike, we stomp our feet the same way, and we laugh alike. It’s sometimes that hardest thing about our relationship. I see things that are ahead for you, and I want to shape you differently so you don’t struggle where I did. On the other hand, I can’t imagine changing your personality. You are who God made you, and I’m so happy that I’m your mama. Which leads me to my final message to you on your fifth birthday …
Every inch of you amazes me! We are so proud of you, to see how you are learning new things every day and watch your caring personality develop. We love you for who you are and wouldn’t want you to be anyone else.
Let’s get this part straight right now. I will worry about you until you are 105 and love you even longer. I will try my hardest to show you how to live successfully and be productive, but I will make mistakes; forgive me for them.
You are the best thing that I’ve ever received, and so on your birthday I wanted to remind you of that. Happy fifth birthday!
Mommy
A Savoy resident and mom of two, Jennifer Newell is the owner of chambanamoms.com partner Bella Bambini (1422 S. Neil St. in Champaign, just north of Kirby Ave.). Newell also blogs on the Bella Bambini website.