Somehow my first-born child is 10 today! Double digits! And that means a decade of motherhood for me.
What is so crazy to me about Cate turning 10 is the fact I have some very clear memories from being a fourth-grader. I remember things that happened at school in Ms. Carey’s class. That’s also the year I met a best friend who was a constant in my everyday life for the next 13 years.
God made me a mom through adoption and it makes my heart swell with joy knowing He chose to give me a girl who is so much like me. Of course, I see my weaknesses and struggles show up in her life too. Sometimes looking in the reflection is hard, but sometimes it so very beautiful.
Cate is a stereotypical first-born who naturally bosses her siblings and makes plans with her friends. She has more hobbies than anyone I know: playing piano, horseback riding, drawing, crafting, writing, reading, baking, and playing board games. She would like to learn to crochet more.
She’s easy to love and has changed me since that day I first held her in a Bloomington, Indiana hotel room.
*****
Catherine Anna,
I love watching you create things and try new things. You have your routines and preferences, but you’re brave and trust God in ways I wish I did at your age.
You’re a faithful friend to so many, and I love seeing you care for others. You’re such a good big sister and are so great coming alongside us to help with whatever is going on. Of course, I sometimes have to remind you that you aren’t Ben’s mom!
You read books over and over again. Meanwhile, I pray you fall more in love with the Storyteller who has weaved together your story. You ask questions about everything and I pray you always think deeply. You love to go on trip but are excited to come home too, prompting me to pray you always embrace adventure without losing your sense of home.
We’re in this live together because that was God’s plan for us. I’m grateful you are the one God used to make me a mom 10 years ago. Watching you grow up has been one of my greatest experiences, so I’m excited to see what comes next for you and our family.
I love you,
Momma
*****
Read more birthday posts :: One. Two. Three. Four. Five. Six. Seven. Eight. Baptism. Nine.
Happy Birthday, Cate!!!
Such a beautiful post, Kristin. Cate always sounds (and looks in photos, like a terrific girl! It is amazing how God uses our children in our lives. Somehow He grows us up while we grow them up. It is a process that He stirs my heart even now that mine are grown. And He still uses them to grow me 🙂 Much love to you both! xo
Thanks, Joanne! Hope you had a happy weekend. xo