Dear Izzy,

You are 9. Wow! I’ve been turning that number over and over in my head all week. I can hardly believe we’ve almost shared a decade with you. I remember when I was pregnant; I worked out how old I’d be when you turned 10. Back then, 31 felt a very long way off! I’m still not sure whether I’m grown up enough to be your mother, but I do the very best job I can.

Dear Izzy,

Don’t rush. Don’t be in a hurry to grow up. It’s not as exciting as it looks, I promise. Recently, more than ever before, I’ve felt your childhood slipping through my fingers. I know I can’t keep you little forever, but I can remind you to enjoy these carefree, uncomplicated days. They’re more precious than you think.

Dear Izzy,

Keep singing. Keep dancing. Keep dreaming of your name in lights. I wish I could find the words to describe the way your face lights up when you perform. It fills me with such pride. I can see your passion for the stage is an intrinsic part of who you are and daddy and I will do everything in our power to nurture and develop your obvious talent.

Dear Izzy,

I’m sorry we turned your world upside down. Our decision to move to another city wasn’t taken lightly and I’ve lost plenty of sleep worrying about how it might affect you and your brother. I’ve never seen you nervous like you were the day you started your new school and I know the last few months have been hard for you. I am so proud of how you have handled everything and the enthusiasm with which you have risen to the challenge to form new friendships and make new memories.

Dear Izzy,

Never lose your thirst for new experiences, whether they are real or contained within the pages of a book. Keep reading and keep writing. Don’t stop daydreaming.

Dear Izzy,

Thank you for caring deeply for your brother, even when he’s being annoying! Thank you for playing with him, thank you for reading to him and thank you for encouraging him in everything he does. Jesse adores you.

Dear Izzy,

Know that we love you. Always, and no matter what.

Happy birthday baby girl.

Love Audrey xxx

PS. This post was partly inspired by the beautiful letters The Start-Up Wife writes each of her children on their birthdays. Read what I wrote last year here and here.