Dear Poppy,

It’s the the night before your birthday and I am wondering where the time went. It seriously does not seem possible that you arrived ten years ago.

I cannot tell you how much you were wanted. How much we longed for a baby but didn’t actually think it would ever happen. You were super special, the little girl we hoped and dreamed off and we loved you more than we ever thought possible, right from the start:

I remember Daddy being really worried about how we were going to keep you alive but I never had any concerns. I knew we would be okay. Except for terrible colic in those early days, you were always such an easy, good baby. We used to live in Canada then so would travel quite a bit, to and from Canada to England and across Canada and America. You coped amazingly with it all. You love the fact you were born in Canada. This year we celebrated Canada Day for you and you enjoyed it so much we are going to do it every year from now on. Our new tradition. One you couldn’t be prouder of:

A few years later we gave you a sister to play with and then a few years later another. You were always such a great big sister. One to look up to and respect, a fantastic role model.

You have always been so very sensible and kind and continue to be so today. A gorgeous but clever girl who we are sure will go far. You are currently aiming to get into Grammar school and I hope you do. Not for us but for you. You see we put no pressure on you, we just want you to try your hardest and to be happy.  You have worked so hard so fingers crossed.  Today in school you were awarded for all your amazing effort both in school and outside. Daddy wasn’t there but I was so proud. We are always proud of you. You always try your hardest at whatever you do:

Double figures seems so very grown up. Just don’t grow up too quickly big girl. Enjoy being young for a bit longer. I know between us we are already planning on having lots of fun this summer and swapping some of that sense for silliness!

Have an amazing birthday Poppy. I know you’ve already had a party with your friends. A spa sleepover party with face masks, a foot spa and manicures. Tomorrow we are having a family day at the beach as requested by you. It’s Daddy’s birthday too as you know and he can’t wait either. You both love the fact you share your special day:

Love you more than holidays, the warm sand between my toes and rainbows sweetheart.

Mummy xx