*A bit delayed, but here is my letter to Katie on her 7th Birthday.*
My beautiful Katherine,
This year is a milestone year for you! Seven years old, how big you’ve grown, my love. I was looking at your photos from last year and I see the difference in how you look now. You actually lost a bit of weight and you grew taller. Your hair is still the same tangled curly mess. I can almost see how gorgeous you’ll be when you get to your teenage years (thankfully, a couple more years away)!
Your personality has also grown a lot. You know how to assert yourself to us, to your sister and even in school. Talking and words may still be a struggle for you, but you make up for it in so many other ways. You are also a lot more engaged with Patty these days. It makes me smile to see you try to annoy her sometimes, like a typical big sister.
On your birthday this year, we had our usual family celebration at home.
Then on the weekend, we had a big party for you at that indoor playground you like, just as we promised last year.
Katie, my love, I continue to pray for breakthrough for you. I know that many times, you get frustrated with not being able to let us know what you want. Daddy and I get frustrated too-that sometimes we can’t understand you. Sometimes we all get tired and we cry, but we always push on and try again. I believe that there will be a time that we will communicate much better, that you will improve so much and have a really good and exciting life ahead.
Whatever happens, we are here for you. Waiting, watching and helping you navigate this world. People will see your gifts and the light you bring to our lives.
Happy birthday, darling. You are one of the best things in my life.
Love always,
Mummy
