To My Daughter On Her Ninth Birthday

To My Daughter On Her Ninth Birthday is part of the Letters to my Children series.

Dearest Kinley,

There is a quote I recently read that made me think of you:

“Quiet people have the loudest minds.” – Stephen Hawking

When I read that, I immediately thought of you. You, my quiet little love bug, most certainly have one of the loudest minds out there, and I have learned some much in the short time you’ve been with me on this planet.

Nine years ago, I gave birth to a 9 pound, 1 ounce girl. My life changed the instant they laid you in my arms.

Today you are nine.

For you, being nine means being independent and responsible but knowing mom and dad are still there for cuddles when feelings get hurt.

Being nine means pre-puberty and the sass {especially about clothing!} and sometimes hard life lessons that come with it.

Being nine means deeper conversations and endless questions on topics that are reserved for adults.

Being nine means not being able to spell things out, sugar coat, or use secret sarcasm because all of that has been exposed and you know how to read us.

Being nine is being a trusted tween. You’re not quite a teen, but getting farther and farther from being labeled a ‘little’ kid.

Being nine ROCKS, and dad and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for your future because we sure know it’s going to be bright.

A bit about who you currently are…

Your passion for nature, science, math, reading, and sports hasn’t dissipated even in the slightest. This year, you have definitely realized other kids don’t necessarily like bugs and the odd things you get excited about, but you don’t care. You love spouting out ‘fun facts’ about animals and nature, and your mind amazes us with its ability to retain info. I love watching you inspire kids around you to take time to enjoy the great outdoors, too. Seeing you come alive with your passions makes you SHINE.

I often call you the quiet leader because that’s what you are. You may be quiet, but you don’t let others sway you, and you’ve always been strong with your passions. I promise to try my best as a parent to make sure that fire stays alive forever.

In fact, dad and I have been chuckling that your birthday presents this year sum up exactly who you are: A bow and arrow to honor your love of the outdoors and survival skills, and getting your ears pierced…because you’ve always had a side that keeps us guessing. We never would’ve pegged you as a kid that would want that done {girly girl stuff is still not your thing}, but we are glad you faced your fears.

This truly has been a year full of growth and bravery, and I am beyond proud of you for continuing to step outside your comfort zone. Stats show a girls’ confidence drops by 30% between the ages of 8 and 14, and I’m hopeful that if you keep along the path you’re blazing, you will soar.

My world has forever been changed because of you, and my purpose made deeper than I could’ve imagined. So thankful to have learned and loved so much these past nine years.

Wishing you a fantastic year ahead filled with discovery, imagination, and all the books you can handle.

Love you to the moon and back, times infinity.

xox,

Mom