A Letter to My Daughter For Her Birthday

My sweet Olive,

Six years ago today, you made me a mom. It feels impossible that so much time has passed, because in so many ways I can still picture you exactly as you were in those first days of your life. I remember your tiny hands, the quiet beeping of machines, and the long hours we spent in the NICU after your perinatal stroke diagnosis. It was one of the most terrifying weeks of my life. We didn’t know what the future would look like or what challenges might lie ahead for you. All we knew was how deeply we loved you and how fiercely we hoped for your happiness.

Even then, though, there was something about you. A strength. A calm determination. You were tiny, but you were already showing us who you were.

And for the past six years, you have never stopped amazing us.

You have grown into a happy, confident, independent girl who meets the world with courage and curiosity. You don’t let obstacles define you or slow you down. Six years after a diagnosis that once filled us with fear, you are skiing black diamond bump runs, flipping and soaring in gymnastics, riding your bike through Moab, and becoming the most incredible little reader. Every time you try something new, you remind us that limits are often just stories we tell ourselves.

I always knew you would be amazing. But somehow, you have surpassed every hope and dream I ever had. Watching you grow has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.

What makes me proudest isn’t just what you can do, though. It’s who you are. You are kind. You are brave. You are joyful. You are the very best big sister, full of patience and love, and the daughter every parent dreams of having. The way you light up a room and make people feel included and loved is something truly special. Everyone who knows you is lucky to have you in their life, just like we are.

As you turn six, I find myself wondering how time moved so quickly, while also feeling so excited for everything ahead of you. I can’t wait to see what your sixth year brings, what new passions you discover, and all the ways you will continue to surprise us.

No matter how big you get, you will always be my baby, my brave girl, and one of the greatest gifts of my life.

Happy 6th birthday, Olive. I love you more than I will ever be able to put into words.

Love always,
Mom