It's that time of year again....

I must take a break from my vacation blogging to post something special today. 

It's Maisyn's 10th birthday!

Maisyn Kate was born October 11, 2000. 

Last night as we were getting into bed, I backflashed ten years to the same moment, remembering a sleepless night knowing I was heading in to be induced the next morning - gratefully 10 days before my due date!

 Everything about this girl was as it should have been. 

The moment I gave birth to Sydney, 3 1/2 years earlier, I knew we would have another child. 

From the time we knew she was a she, I had her name picked out. 

   She is a treasure to me.  At a particularly low moment in life, she was there with those chubby cheeks, bright eyes and precious smile to tell me everything would be ok. 

She was a snuggler and still is - when we take the time!

    Maisyn is growing up to be a beautiful young lady.  She is feisty and strong-willed and sensitive and considerate.  She likes to be one of the "big girls" and will still play for hours with her little brother.

  I see how much she cares about her friends, making sure they know she's thinking of them. 

And she is genuinely excited to get to know others. 

    Her family, immediate and extended, is very important to her as well.

       As you can see, I simply adore her.  I am excited to bring her some Wendy's for lunch today to celebrate - along with doughnuts to share with the class.  And then to have a lasagna dinner with Grandma and Grandpa and open presents tonight.  It's going to be an amazing day! 

Love you, Maisyn!  And HAPPY BIRTHDAY!