To my daughter.

Reagan,

Don't ever grow old, that is foolish. 

Collect and remember the lessons life gives you and save them under "things I have learned". But do not ever let them age you, my sweet girl.

Time is not a death march or something to be scared of, it is just an easy way to index the exact moments you left a mark on someones life.

You have 60 minutes to an hour, and 24 hours to a day, 

so smile all the time, over compliment and love entirely. 

Always keep the sunshine on your skin, the warmth and softness of your voice, and the sparkle and light in your eyes.

The one who created the stars, oceans and galaxies is the same one who built you too, so don't ever think you can't burn just as bright. 

You will be hurt in life, broken and torn apart. It's an inevitable part of life and growing up. 

Remember back to all the times you fell and hurt yourself, or when you learn to ride a bike without training wheels. That is when we will learn that everything heals, and the scars are just times you colored outside of the lines of the magnificent creation that you are.

People will come around like scars. Not to say "this is where you've been hurt", but to help you patch them back together again.

Let them.

When you were born, there were thunderstorms as you cried and the world shook as you laughed. You have always been a force of nature. 

There is no reason at all that anyone or anything should ever make you feel small.

Last but not least, on those days that you feel you are not good enough, Always remember the first man to ever say he loves you will always mean it, and the first woman to kiss you did so unconditionally. 

We, your family, me, GiGi, and Papa will always accept what you choose to be,

and will always be your shield and support,

your shoulder to cry on, and an ear for you to confide in. 

-Love mommy