A very special girl

celebrates her birthday today! Her softball teammates call her Shorty but most call her Taylor and today she turns 8!

I personally can't believe she is 8 already. This kid needs to stop growing! She has grown up so much in the past year. As I look at the pictures from a year ago its crazy to me exactly how much she has grown. I wish she could stay this little forever but I know from wishing the same wish on almost every kid I know, Its a wish that doesn't come true. I will be okay with it though because its amazing to watch her grow and change as she becomes older.

Here are a few photos from the past year:
January:
February:
March:

May:

June:

August:

September:

October:

November:

Just a few days ago:

Taylor,

First things first- I adore you. You are such an amazing girl. You have such a kind heart and you posses wisdom and maturity way beyond your years. You never cease to amaze me with the things you are capable of- the way you know exactly what to say or do when someone is feeling down, the way you adapt to make the best of any situation, the way your always there to lend a helping hand, your positive way of thinking and the wonderful way you can lift my spirits just by flashing me a smile. Your an inspiration to me and sometimes when I am feeling down all I need to do is think of you and that gives me the strength to keep going.

You are very special to me. We share a special bond and I hope that as you get older that bond between you and I strengthens. I hope you that you know I am here for you. Whatever you may need and however old you are, for anything I can help with- I will be here. Forever and always you will remain my little buddy, my best friend and in most ways your like my sister to.

Hope you have a happy birthday and that your eighth year is everything you could've asked for and more.

and don't forget how much I LOVE YOU! forever and always.

Love,