I make it a point to spend time lying with my kids at bedtime on the eve of their birthdays. It’s a special moment for me to cherish the final moments of them at that age, to cuddle them and hold onto a fleeting moment in time.
Tonight, I lay with my little sweet girl. We listened to a couple of songs and talked about our day. I told her how much I love her, and she squeezed me tight with those five-year-old arms for the last time before settling in for sleep.
As we prepared for her to drift off, I asked, “Are you excited to turn six tomorrow?”
My daughter, who has been eagerly anticipating her birthday all day, the one who loves singing pop and rock songs like she’s twelve and dreams of being tall enough to ride every roller coaster, surprised me with her reply.
She burst into tears.
Immediately, I held her close, and we cried together. Nestled against my chest, she sobbed, “I don’t want to grow up.”
I let her cry, allowing her to feel her emotions without undermining them. I didn’t dare admit that I felt a little the same. That life does become more and more complicated as we grow, and that is hard.
After a few tears, I told her how proud I am of her, how she inspires me every day, and how I have loved every version of her. I assured her that I couldn’t wait to meet the six-year-old version of her.
I am constantly amazed by this little girl. She is brave and strong, facing her challenges even though I know it’s and struggle.
She is creative and thoughtful; her mind is always racing with ideas and thoughts that astound me when she shares them.
She is kind and caring, always thinking of her brother and cherishing her friendships.
She is so much I never have been, and I love that about her.
Tonight, we said goodbye to five, and it was bittersweet. But I know she will be an amazing six-year-old.
After finding a lighter mood and just before she finally closed her eyes, we held hands, and she said, “I am excited for my birthday tomorrow.”
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