Last night, we went to the county fair after celebrating K’s 5th birthday with my parents.  It wasn’t her first time at the fair, but it was the first time she rode real rides, including this roller coaster and a ferris wheel. We left hot and sticky and hopped up on sugar, but she was utterly satisfied.

Five years ago this morning, I was in a hospital, hooked up to a pitocin drip and rocked by contractions that eventually brought my beautiful and deliriously crazy daughter into the world. I’ll be there again soon, for the last time, to meet the boy who will be my son. K will be a big sister, a kindergartener, and closer every day to growing up into someone who can read, have math tests, go places by herself, drive a car, live her own life.

I’m terrified and excited for her all at once.

Happy birthday, kiddo. I love you, always.