Thirty Three

Dear Emily,

When I turned 33 you were one week old. Now you are 33 and in one week I will be twice your age! When I was 33 I was overwhelmed at the prospect of being a mom. I am still overwhelmed, but not with worry or anxiety, nor with sleep deprivation or with all the new things I had to learn about being a nursing parent with an infant! I still do not feel worthy. I still worry with hope. I still count on our good God to keep my head above water when I feel it is all too much!

Today, however, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the things you have taught me and the privilege it has been to be your mom.  I am overwhelmed by your beauty, your intelligence, your importunity, your accomplishments and your creativity. I continue to be captivated by your talent and the way you articulate yourself. I am enthralled by the utter joy that you and your brother both love God and have loving spouses. I am astonished by waves of grace and hope as the years go by.

I am consumed with love for you, Emily Ruth Moses Osborn. Happy 33rd Birthday and may this trip around the sun overwhelm you with all the amazing things God has for you with as much joy and happiness as you have given me. May you be as happy than 1000 rainbows, and live fully all the days of your life.

Love,

your biggest fan and overwhelmed mom