January 16, 2010

sixteen


When I held that sweet bundle of newness in my arms for the very first time I was overcome by her... her tiny features, the realness of the moment and the responsibility. And certainly sixteen was the furthest thing from my mind. As the years passed and milestones were reached, I rejoiced and anticpated the next... but never once did I think I can't wait until she is sixteen.... and yet, here she is. Placing her other foot across the threshhold of young adulthood.
The years between then and now have passed more quickly than I ever dreamed possible, or could have possibly wanted. Those people who tell you to slow down and not wish it all away... that the time will pass so quickly? An understatement. I recall standing in line at the grocery store and having someone say that to me... and oh how I wish I had taken her advice at face value. Time really does fly... and though I have albums full of moments and a heart full of memories, never again will I be able to hold all of her in my arms... and those tiny hands that once grasped onto mine with such determination are now almost a mirror image of my own. The girl who used to scream at the door because she didn't want to go to bed now comes to kiss me goodnight by 8:30... worn from her day and ready for rest. But while I try to focus on what was, what is steps quickly into view. Her stunningly beautiful heart. The confidence that can lead her to a microphone and prompt her voice to sing. Her laughter... that tumbles out unexpectedly and leads me to my own. The way she stoops down, to help someone small... and in the process makes them feel big. Her love. And all at once I see it was a journey to this very moment. It leaves me smiling... and a little breathless. And happy. Very happy.
Happy Birthday Laura!

post signature

12 comments :

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful tribute to your daughter. Happy birthday Laura! :)

jenn said...

Dawn--I just don't know what to say! this is the most beautiful post I have ever read in between my tears! I am breathless~thank you for the reminder!

Happy Birthday Laura--you are one special young lady and you have a really special mother! Enjoy your day!

Love~Jenn

Busy Bee Suz said...

**tears**tears***

so beautifully written for such a beautiful girl!!!
I hope this is a wonderful year for her...and you as well!!!

xoxox
Suz

Kelli said...

Happy Birthday Laura!! Dawn, your gift of expressing your heart in words amazes me and I'm honored that you share it with us!!!

Tina said...

I am so proud of the amazing young lady Laura has become. I am very lucky to be such a big part of her life.
xoxox her Auntie

Jenn said...

I remember so well the day she was born. I can't believe that it was sixteen years ago. Not only has she come so far, but her mom has, too. Happy birthday to you both. :)

HWHL said...

A beautiful tribute to your beautiful daughter. And yes, you're so right.... they grow up right before your very eyes... in a milli-second!

Unknown said...

Happy Birthday sweet 16!

Dawn that was a lovely tribute. My favorite part was:

"Placing her other foot across the threshhold of young adulthood."

You forgot to add:

"Placing ehr other foot on the gas pedal."

Richella Parham said...

My goodness, January is a busy month in your house, isn't it?

How can it be that Cam is 13 and Laura is 16? It feels weird when they're both at a real milestone, doesn't it? Leaves you sort of breathless, doesn't it?

I was out of town and out of touch this past week. Then, since I've been home, I've been sick for the past 36 hours or so. I didn't go to church this morning. Feeling a bit sorry for myself here at home--'til I got online and caught up with you. Now I feel better.

Because you are good for my soul. You are very well named, because you are a light-bearer.

Thank you.

Cassie said...

Happy Birthday Laura!! Your mom always says the nicest things about you. Seems you've gotten more lovely in just the year that I've been following this blog.Grow in grace dear Laura!

ballast photography said...

So beautiful, Dawn. With two teen of my own, I can relate so much. I have always been aware that my time with them as children is so brief, but I've found no way to capture it other than to cherish every moment and to appreciate each one as it goes by. It seems you are doing the same.

imoomie said...

Ahhh...I am with you, my oldest daughter will soon be 16 and is so quickly becoming a beautiful young woman...it is bittersweet.

Back to Top