Saturday, October 1, 2011

Letters to my daughters

I love being a part of the blog world and feel so lucky that I live in an era where technology allows us to feel so connected to people who would otherwise be complete strangers.  The majority of the blogs I subscribe to are mom and photography blogs.  It's so wonderful to have so much inspiration and so many great ideas all within reach by the click of the mouse.

On my blog "to do" list is to share some of these amazing blogs I've some across these last couple of years.  Look for that coming soon.

In the meantime I wanted to share an idea I've come across on several blogs in my reader.  It's about writing letters to your children.  After being so inspired I've started to do this on my family blog and did one for the girls baby books.  So I decided to put together a book as a keepsake for all the letters I write to them.  I thought about doing a Shutterfly type book but I wanted to be able to add letters as I go along so I thought to keep it simple I would just get a binder. 

I bought a $3 binder and made the cover in a word document.  I made one for Mallory and Jillian.

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Every time I write a letter I simply place it in a page protector.  By the time they leave for college each girl will have a book full of letters written to them by their mom. 

   

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I plan to write them on their birthdays and at the beginning of each school year but you can do it anytime or anyway that suits you!  Knock your socks off!  It's never too late to start either! 

Here's the letter I wrote Mallory on her first day of preschool. 

Dear Mallory,

Last night before bed I talked to you about what a big day today was going to be for you, your very first day of preschool.  Mommy gets a
little sad when I think about how my little sweet baby is growing up and is going to have her first experiences without me or daddy. Although I'm sad I am also so very happy for you because I know you are ready for this!  I know you will thrive in this environment- learning and making new friends all on your own!!  You are growing up so fast that a part of me just wants to hold on so tight to all your 3 year old goodness, the bright eyes, curiosity and wonder that make up who you are today.  I adore your sweet little voice that often articulates well beyond your years, the daily questions you ask "What are we doing today mommy?", "Is it morning still? "What are we having for dinner?", "Why did you make that sound mommy, are you frustrated?", "Does daddy have to work today?".  I love how I can hear you singing in your room all your favorite songs at nap time and bedtime. You adore music and couldn't be happier singing and dancing to songs from Barney, Annie and Mary Poppins. I love the way you always ask to help me: "Can I help you with the dishes?", Can I help you with the laundry?".  So eager to help and so proud of your accomplishments!  You have the most delicious laugh I have ever heard, it's a belly giggle that warms my heart every time I hear it!  You are becoming so independent wanting to do everything yourself, helping Jillian do things too and I've said it before but you and Jillian were meant to be sisters- she reserves a special laugh that's only for you- the two of you love to roll around on your bed together just laughing, laughing, laughing...  I have no doubt that you will be the best of friends!! 
I remember when I was a little girl and I would dream about being a mommy, that little girl I always wanted is you Mallory, my first born.  I feels so blessed that I could be a part of your days of dress-up, story books, singing, hugs and kisses, creating, and laughing.  I have big dreams for you but also know you will have dreams of your own, I am in awe at the little girl that you are and can't wait to see the person you become. Sending you off to preschool is the first tiny step in letting go...I am so grateful to be part of this journey with you!
 
Love,
Mommy

2 comments:

  1. Tricia, I have had "birthday letter" on my to do list for my daughter since April. I am not sure why I put this task off as if it does not have a deadline. Thank you for the push.

    Have you seen this commercial? It makes me nearly cry every time. Interesting take on the same concept: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4vkVHijdQk&noredirect=1

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  2. this is such a great idea. i can't wait to start for my little ones. :)

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