This weekend my baby girl turned 14 years old.  I cannot believe how quickly time has passed.  I watched my little beauty interact with our family and her friends with a strong sense of pride.  It was a glimpse into the past, as I was actually watching myself at 14: albeit a more refined, loveable, effervescent version of myself.  She is truly a little lady and exudes such vibrancy.

My little Tinkerbell is very much a daddy’s girl.  I was too at her age but I cannot help but feel twinges of jealousy at their tight bond.  I selfishly want her all to myself.  I lovingly want to share her brillance with the world so that everyone knows how fabulous and wonderful this child of mine truly is!

I have to admit, she is one of the few that truly brings out the best in me.  She makes me embrace our extended family.  She encourages me to stay positive no matter what happens.  She leans on me for strength just as she allows me to lean right back on her internal strength.  She is one of my main motivations and she is the reason I get up and push myself to the limits.  I am charged with setting an example for her.  I have not always set the best example but when I fall short, I am sure to point it out to her, talk through it and encourage her not to embody my failures.

I share this very personal piece with you to celebrate not only my daughter, but life in general.  There is no other experience like watching your child grow and develop into an adult.  As someone who was once told they would never be able to conceive, I try my best not to take any time with my children for granted.

So today, take some time to celebrate those who are most important to you.  Sit back and reflect on how much positivity they bring to your life.  Then say a little prayer thanking the good Lord for their presence.  And lastly, send them a brief message any way you choose and let them know how much they mean to you.

Until next time, always remember “Children are great imitators. So give them something great to imitate.” – Anonymous

~ Mara Prose