Thursday, July 10, 2014

Our Girl, Age 5

Ella Vita, Age 5.

I meant to write you this on your birthday. But I didn't, did I? So I'm writing you now sweet girl. And you really are our sweet girl. When Daddy and I talk about you, the first thing we comment on is your tender heart. You are so kind and loving. And you know how to articulate this. You tell us all day long how much you love us and it fills my cup. "I'm so glad that you're my Mom and Dad's my Dad," you tell me over and over. Ella, I'm so glad that you're OUR girl.

You are so smart. These days you're a little encyclopedia and you overflow with tips and trivia. You teach me about the food chain, the solar system, and you make mention of the revolution and the red coats. I just nod my head, #i'mnotsmarterthanafiveyearold. Thank you Ruff Ruffman and Wild Kratts.

Some of your favorites: strawberries, chocolate, pink, fairies, the ocean, 'teenager shows' (on Disney channel), the library, catalogs that come in the mail (any kind, really), donuts, finger paint, doing dishes, and your FAMILY. You love your family- your brothers and sister, your Grandparents, your Uncles.

You are totally into dogs. I am not. But the joy you find in animals is a perfect example of how motherhood has changed me. I find SUCH delight watching you when you're happy. Even if it's over Chihuahuas.

Sometimes when I watch you I'm struck by your gorgeous face and huge smile. You are beautiful. But it's your kind heart that makes you stunning.

You enjoy girly things. You like pedicures and twirling in frilly dresses. While you play in the dirt and wrestle. You make it easy to go with the flow. I love watching you play with Maxwell. You are an encourager and you are genuinely happy for your brother when he does well. That's such a great way to show your love.


You start Kindergarten next month! I feel good about you starting because you are ready to grow.  You have a quiet confidence about you and you're a great leader for Maxwell. You will start school together and I am so excited for all the things you'll learn and friends you'll meet. You are gong to be amazing!

When I prayed that God would make me a Mama I knew parenting would be hard, but I had no idea how rewarding and fulfilling it would be too. In my worst moments I still find joy because of you and your brother. You have given my life a new purpose and reason. I am your Mama. Any sacrifice I make for you comes back to bless me tenfold. You make me want to be better at life because you're watching me. I'm modeling it all for you with my words, my choices, my relationships. I for sure fall short but you motivate me to try harder.

Thank you for your silly spirit and your gentle presence. You are so special to this family. Your middle name is Vita after your great grandmother, and it suits you well. Vita means life and you bring so much life to our home. You make us so happy.

Thank you God for choosing me to be her Mama. She is a gift and truly brings us such joy.

We love you Ella Vita.













...Maxwell's post next...

4 comments:

Chicago Mom (Heather) said...

She is a beauty! I think she and Keira would be the best of friends. They share so many of the same interests. Keira watches Wild Kratts too. :-)

What an exciting year for us? Our daughters both go to Kindergarten!

Anonymous said...

Lily, Annie and I love this girl too!

rozanny said...

I love that you post these for your kids... what a fun reminder to them of who they were and where they came from. Love it! She does seem like such a tender girl.

Unknown said...

This is so meaningful and heart felt....Ella Vita is such a joy...I love the way she laughs with her whole self, how see always sees the good, how encouraging she is with Maxwell and how her heart flows out with what she says and does!
I love you Ella Vita!
Noni