::sweet nin::

lily lu.  how is it possible that you are 7?
i feel like you were born just yesterday, yet i absolutely cannot imagine my life without you.

you are such a blessing to our family.  you bring so much tenderness, compassion, love and joy to our family.

this year, you have grown in so many ways.

it has been such a privilege to watch you learn to read.  you are learning new things every day and you have really flourished at school this year.  you have made new friends and found so much courage to be yourself at school.

you have been so brave in so many circumstances this year and it has been such a joy to see you find so much strength and bravery within yourself.  you tried tubing, and riding a horse, and skiing -- and loved all of it!  and you have also been very brave in being honest and talking about things that make you nervous or worry you.  and we are so proud of you for these things!

it has been amazing to watch you with your siblings...and so much fun to see you have a little sister!  you are SUCH a wonderful big sister.  you care for finn and crosby and della so very well.  watching the bond between you and della grow is precious.

we absolutely adore you and are so thankful for you, sweet lily.

happy happy 7th birthday, lily howden!  we love you!!