Ava Grace's Closet: Sweet Sixteen : A letter to the first girl to change my life

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Dear Isabella,

It seems so apropos that sweet you is sweet 16 today.

The day you came into the world is one I will never forget. You made your entrance on a Saturday night, with a headful of black hair and blue eyes that later changed.

You stared up at me as though you were trying to decide who I was and whether you should hang around.

I'm glad you did.

You were a kind, shy little girl with a headful of golden curls. Everywhere we went, people would stop to tell us how adorable you were.

A little Shirley Temple.
I can remember years later wishing to have you back at the toddler stage for just one more day.
They were some of the happiest days of my life.

As you grew up, you began to come out of your shell. You have always been well-liked by teachers and kids alike - there's just something about you that makes people want to be around you.
You are a sensitive soul - just like your mama.
We have always worried that this will cause you pain one day. That the wrong boy will come along. That someone will hurt you because you are so good.
I can only hope that the love, guidance and endless talks will help.
I always tell you that no one will ever love you like I do.
And it's true. For you, I would do anything.

At 16, you are passionate about spending time with your friends.You worry about school and strive to do your best without much coaxing from either me or your dad.
You have the messiest room I have ever seen.
You have an attitude some days but it never lasts for long.
You love to take pictures. And to have pictures taken.
I'm not sure you realize yet what a beauty you are. And I love that about you.

My little Izzy, my firstborn, forever my baby...know that you have brought nothing but joy to us in your 16 years.

And you make us proud every. single. day.

Don't ever be anything but you.

Because the you that you are is pretty damn special.

And I'm lucky to be your mom.