Dear Giovanna,
It’s hard to believe that you have been part of our family for 4 years, but it is equally hard to remember what life was like with out you. I often tell you that I don’t know what I did without you, but whatever it was, it was dumb! I have so much to tell you. So much to share. I’m honored to have the opportunity to write you a letter every year for your birthday. Even though the daily journal to you continues (and you might think I’m crazy for that someday), I love to reflect on the year gone by to see just how much you have grown. You love to tell me that my job is to keep you safe and your job is to learn and grow. My little love, you are doing an excellent job!
Every day, but especially today, I wish I could hit a pause button and freeze you where you are today. I still cry every time I read the book “If I Could Keep You Little” – just like the book says, I would love to keep you little, but then I would miss out on seeing who you will become, and that woman is going to be unstoppable!
This year, you started school full time, we started to tour schools to decide where you will attend Kindergarten, you got to go to Disney for the first time and of course to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. I cried like crazy because it was a glimpse of what’s to come with things like prom and your wedding. You had your first “photoshoot” & headshots – which made me tear up watching you “get ready”. I know you are “only” four, but it’s like the time is slipping through my hands no matter how tightly I grasp!
You are vivacious, charismatic, electric AND magnetic. Everywhere we go, EVERYONE is drawn to you. You make people happy, your smile is contagious and you aren’t afraid to head right up to a hostess stand to request a “table for 3 please”! You will order your meal from the server with conviction. Your confidence is inspiring and I hope you never lose it. You are as smart as you are funny, which will serve you well in life. You are compassionate and very concerned about others. You are beautiful inside and out. You are loved by so many people. We are so proud of you!
It was incredibly clear from the moment you were born that you are a beautiful force to be reckoned with. You know what you like and you aren’t shy about advocating for yourself. You are quick to say “so, this is the deal” or to tell any grown up that you are “going to negotiate”!!! There is nothing better than your random “I love you more than California” matches we have and our snuggles while we read stories in bed. This morning you threw open the bathroom door and exclaimed “Good morning Mama!!! I’m 4!!!!” You know how you feel when you see a rainbow? That’s exactly how I feel when I see you!
No matter how old you are, you will always be my baby. Grow into the beautiful, book smart, street smart, strong in mind and body, independent lady that you are destined to be, but never forget that we will never leave your side. I will endlessly encourage you to seek knowledge and empower your mind. I will remind you that true beauty is within and to love yourself first and lead by example. I want to help you learn, but give you space to make your own decisions, and allow you to learn from your mistakes. I vow to be the place you can come to feel uplifted and protected. I will be there for you ALWAYS, through it all.
My birthday wish for you, my love, is that you forever appreciate how special you are. I hope you remain confident enough to be yourself, own your strength and power and march to the beat of your own drum. You are more magical than Elsa and I promise to always remind you of that! Don’t ever settle for anything less than your wildest dreams. Thank you for always loving me unconditionally. Thank you for the many unexpected kisses and hugs from behind. Thank you for exceeding every expectation I’ve ever had of having a child. Thank you for just being you. I’m so grateful to be your Mama.
I love you so much sweet girl. Happy 4th Birthday!