When my daughter was a little girl … heck, it all started when she was still a baby!  I remember going to a lot of trouble to plan each birthday celebration.  In reality, we had 3 birthday parties: 1 for her friends, 1 for the family, and 1 just for us (mom/dad/baby).  As my daughter became of school age, it turned into 4 parties: 1 for her friends, 1 for the family, 1 for the classroom, and 1 just for us (mom/child).

Each party couldn’t be simple (oh no); each party had to have a theme!  Then I had to colour coordinate it, and have appropriate music that would match the theme!  Oh it was very tiring to plan each party.

Fast forward to present day, my daughter will be 17 this Wednesday.  While I don’t have to worry so much about planning the party, I’m no longer enjoying them as much either.  This year, I’m not allowed to be present at the party; I can be home but just not around her and her friends.

In reality, I’m totally fine with that.  The reason why birthdays aren’t as much fun as they use to be is because I see my daughter growing up before my eyes.  Quite possibly, this may be the last birthday party that she’ll want me to be a part of.

Watching my daughter become a year older, every year, is bitter-sweet for me.  I’m sure it’s bitter-sweet for every mother.

Happy Birthday baby girl; I love you so much!