My oldest turns 19 today. How can this be? We’ve heard it our entire lives, to cherish time with our children because it truly goes by too quickly. Like everything else in life, until you go through the motions, you have no idea just how quickly children grow until you look back one day.
Alexandra’s birthday is a milestone for me in so many ways. It is the realization of what a difference a year can make in our lives. Last year, at this time, I was in a much different place. My oldest was getting ready to leave for college and I was getting the courage to start on a new journey… Family Foodie. Change was taking place and change can be hard.
365 days…. seems like a lifetime ago. Alexandra and I both set out on separate journeys waiting to see what was ahead of us. We have both grown so much over this past year. It is a beautiful thing to see the world through the eyes of your adult daughter and see our relationship changing from mother and daughter to a comfortable friendship. As hard as it is to let go, it is also so rewarding to be at this point in my life.
The day Alexandra left for college and I asked her what she would miss most. Without hesitation, she replied, “The time we spend Around the Family Table.” At that moment, I had the reassurance that I needed to start my journey. Not only is she my inspiration, she has been my biggest cheerleader every step of the way. In many ways, our roles have reversed.
What do you give a child who has given me so much over the last 19 years? The best gift I can give her is the gift to see herself through my eyes… and see the true inspiration that she is to our family. I thank God everyday that she is mine!
I think Birthday pedicures are in order today! Happy Birthday Baby Girl!
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{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
That is beautiful ! It’s like your oldest inspired #SundaySupper ! We have her to thank too. Beautiful pictures of her and wish her a lovely life ahead. You are an awesome mom and she is lucky to have you as you are to have her !
Such a lovely post. Best wishes for her birthday and all the great things ahead in this next year.
My 20 year old leaves tomorrow for 2 months in France. I have done my job because I have no fears. She will do great and be great. Congratulations on a job well done.
Happy Birthday Alexandra!
I hope your day together today was awesome. Those pedicures sounded pretty awesome, I felt so terrible for interrupting. But I’m so happy you had that special time with her.
That is one heck of a cute picture, I’m not sure which one is more adorable. 
I know it has to be so hard with her away, but it’s so beautiful that now when she returns home, she is grateful to be with her best friend (her mom). I see she took right to Gracie.
Again, Happy Birthday Alexandra – I’m glad you got to spend it with your mom!
I’m always inspired by the @familyfoodie! Happy birthday to BOTH of you! Bon appetit!
Is such a lovely post, Isabel. May all the best be around with both of you!
Thank you so much Faye! It is so true sometimes the hardest things in life are the biggest blessings!