Nine.

Happy 9th Birthday, my sweet girl!

Nine years ago, you changed our world in the best possible way. I still remember the first time I held you — after months of uncertainty — and now here you are, so full of life, joy, and personality. Watching you grow has been the greatest gift of our lives.

You shine so brightly, especially when you're on stage — dancing, singing, or acting in plays. That’s where your heart truly lights up, and I love seeing how fearless and happy you are when you perform. We hope you always chase the things that make your soul feel alive.

You also know how to enjoy the little things in life — like a big bowl of buttered spaghetti, or a day of swimming and playing Barbies with your friends. Your favorite person on Earth is your big sister (of course!), followed closely by your best friends… and very distantly by Cooper — or any dog, really.

Your joy is contagious, and your kind, silly, beautiful spirit makes everyone around you feel lucky to know you.

You are smart, strong, creative, and full of love. I’m so proud of the person you are becoming, and I feel lucky every single day that you are ours. You are completely your own person — with your own thoughts, your own heart, your own spark. You’re not me, or your dad, or your sister, or your friends — you are YOU. And I pray you always love that little girl inside you, even as you inch closer to being a tween (with all that sass!).

I hope this birthday is filled with everything you love — music, swimming, friendship, and of course, as much cotton candy ice cream as your belly can handle.

Never stop shining like the bright star you are. Always stay fierce.

Happy 9th Birthday to our Mira Joy.

I love you with all my heart,
Mom