Will I always remember?

Hope, how long have we been counting down for the big day? The months and weeks have finally passed, and it's official sweetie, you are 5. 

 Will you remember turning 5? Will you remember how excited you were for this day?

I doubt that you will, because unfortunately memories fade.

Which kind of scares me, because there are some things I always want to remember.

Will I always remember how badly I wanted another child?

 And how nervous I was after all the doctors told us not have another child.

 Or just how crazy insane I acted when I had you, because it hurt so flippin' bad.

 Will I always remember, repeating over and over again, "Is she okay? Is she really a she?"

 And the content feeling I had when they placed you in my arms, and my little family was complete.

 Will I always remember what a sweet baby you were?

 How well you slept for us.

 And how you embodied a picture of perfection in my eyes.

 Will I always remember how quickly your personality started to emerge?

 How glimpses of your silliness began to show up early.

 Along with glimpses of an attitude.

 And just plain adorableness.

 Will I always remember, how quickly my doubts of loving another child vanished?

 How my heart soared to new heights adding another child to the family.

How my ability to be obnoxious on a daily basis could actually double.

Will I always remember how you made your tough daddy melt?

 And how infectious your wonder and joy was.

How with one simple smile

 You could bring such joy to this family.

 Will I always remember how quickly your moods could change?

 How the waterworks could start at the drop of a hat.

 Over what often seemed like no apparent reason at all.

 Will I always remember just how silly you were?

 The laughter you brought us?

 And the adventures you were willing to take on.

 Will I always remember your 4th year of life?

 How much fun we've had?

 All the memories we've made as a family

 And how much you have grown and changed in this past year.

 Hope Elizabeth, our bold princess, who is taking life by the horns.

 Who doesn't know a stranger, and is itching to be a kindergartner.

 Who is growing up faster than I can almost stomach.

 Will I always remember?

 Trust me my sweet Hopie, my heart could never forget.

Happy birthday sweet girl. Momma loves you so.