Thirteen

Thirteen years ago today, I gave birth to my oldest daughter. She made me a mother. She taught me what it means to walk around with my heart outside my body, and what it means to love someone more fiercely than I ever thought possible.

There are no rules to this mothering gig. I’ve made them up as I go, and I’ve learned a lot along the way. I’ve learned that sometimes kids will break your heart, and you’ll break theirs. I’ve learned that being their friend isn’t the most important thing, but you have to have honest, open communication and trust. I’ve learned that it’s not just about what I want for her, it’s about what she wants for herself. I’ve learned that we both still have a lot to learn and a long way to go, but that no matter what, we have plenty of love.



Happy birthday, darling daughter of mine.