Lucky Thirteen

In our household, we don't consider the number thirteen to be an unlucky one.  That's especially true on this day...

because this beautiful girl celebrates her thirteenth birthday.  And we are so lucky to be blessed with her!

She came into this world on a scorching summer day much like the one we're experiencing today. And with her very first breath, our precious Reilly Rose changed our world completely.

It seems as if she went from being a toddler to a teenager in the blink of an eye.  I must need my eyes checked because often times when I look at my freckled-faced daughter...

instead of seeing the exquisite young lady she's becoming, I see the face of my little chubby-cheeked baby girl.  The baby girl who, almost 3yrs old then, {out-of-the-blue & so sweetly} sang the first verse of God Bless America as the plane we were on landed in New York{just over six months after the tragic events of 9/11}.  When Reilly finished her impromptu performance, passengers all around were clapping. And there wasn't a dry eye on that airplane that day.

My baby girl...she is still that sweet, compassionate, sensitive soul.

Quiet but quick-witted, Reilly can have us all rolling on the floor laughing with one of her quips.

She's small and often shy, but she has a mighty spirit {look out if/when that Irish temper of hers flares!}.

A girl growing up in a small town who someday wants to live in NYC.  A girl who loves her cats & dog, her family, friends, Josh Hutcherson, computer games and crafting...not necessarily in that order.

Yes, our baby girl is growing up & changing all too fast.  She's braver than she thinks she is, stronger than she thinks she is, and smarter than she thinks she is.

We couldn't be more proud of our Reilly Rose.  She is our light, our joy, our constant love.  We look forward to witnessing the terrific teenager she will be.  And, whether she likes it or not...at age 13 or 31 or 62...she will always be our beloved baby girl.

Happy Birthday, Reilly!! Love you more!!