Dear Jbird,

{April 14, 2010, age NINE, breakfast at IHOP (she ordered a burger and fries, tho??)}

Whew. I think your ninth birthday celebrations have been put to rest...for the moment...

You have squeezed every moment of joy out of the past year! Your eyes are wide open with a curious mind, living and enjoying each adventure and challenge that the days bring. You love being a part of the ensemble. Whether it be an oompa loompa in Willie Wonka or running with the boys on the basketball courts...or just being a part of one big, extended family.

Being a team-player is effortless for you. You are always encouraging to your brother and people always compliment you at your love and tenderness with him. You don't want anyone to feel left out and love the chance to be "in charge". At school, the principal has given you a special "title" as you love to help pass out Popsicles to deserving students on Fridays...(and this was is your own private "thing" as Dad and I just learned about it at a conference!)

Your hands have outgrown holding in public, we are left yelling at the slamming car door as you bound out to meet your friends at school.. the "I LOVE YOU, have a great day!!s" are cut off mid-sentence..and forget about getting a smooch from your dad.. it is breaking our hearts to see you in women's size shoes and teenage brand tees and (still skinny) jeans...but the truth is, we couldn't be prouder.
{April 14, 2005, age 4 at D-land!}

Your independent spirit and style still make us so proud. You beat to your own drum, at times, and have taught me not to compare children. It is a gift that I will always be grateful for; that you showed me that everyone is different, learns differently, is motivated by different things and will surprise us to no end. You are working so hard and are having such a great year in 3rd grade. You say math is your favorite, (god bless your super teacher) and you love the whole "Harry Potter/ Sci-Fi" genre (not my fave) but you are still a great artist and love to write letters (for pleasure.. not so much when it's homework). You have dropped "Jadyn" at school, so as not to be mixed up with another girl in your class named "Jade".. would NOT want to be mistaken for her.. (trust me)... so everyone calls you Jbird. What a great name.

Skateboarding and surfing are probably your favorite sports..I can't wait to see you this summer as your biggest fan and coach/ dad will be back in action after last year's ankle debacle. We have so much in store for us in this great year ahead of being NINE. I know I speak for all of us as we just love the little lady you are, and I am so glad to celebrate with you.. everyday of the week.

{2002, First birthday!}