Mikayla Is 11 And I Am Reflective

Last week when we were driving into Fresno, I pointed out Saint Agnes Hospital to the kids, the hospital where Mikayla was born.  I then told her how crazy it was when the nurse tucked us into our car, Mike in the front, Mikayla and I in the back, and allowed us to drive away with this brand new little person.  All of a sudden we were the sole care takers of this precious package!  I didn't feel equipped but I was so happy.

I was barely 21 when Mikayla entered my world.  I didn't suspect a thing.  I'm pretty sure I expected to add this baby bundle to my life and go about my business as usual {whatever that may have been back then?!?}.  What I didn't anticipate is that she would change me.  Me, the girl who didn't like to babysit, who didn't much enjoy kids at all.  WOW.  Thankfully God knew better than me who I was and what I needed.  One tiny package of blue-eyed cuteness grew into a smart, strong-willed toddler, a sweet and playful sister, a cute and curious preschooler, a keen and clever student, then a graceful, self-motivated, helpful young girl. And I am not the same.

Mikayla and I have been together for 11 years now, my firstborn, the girl who made me a mother, the girl who's God-chosen arrival changed the course of my life.  What a blessing it is to have had 11 years with this special girl and to have so many exciting things to look forward to as she grows.

Happy 11th birthday to my Mikayla Grace!  I am so thankful for you!