Meg and Grace,

It can’t be that you are seven. Didn’t we celebrate your first birthday just a few months ago? We had a small family party during your nap time (mistake) and you practically fell asleep in your cake. Those stubborn frosting stains are still on your shirt sleeves.

At your second birthday, it was all about Elmo. You were so cute and slightly confused about it all. The Melissa & Doug cardboard blocks we got you, you still play with.

When you turned three, we invited friends to your party for the first time. Meg announced, “I going to be a little shy.” Grace was too, but not enough to stop her from calling out “More presents!” when the gift opening was finished. It was our first tea party and I love that tea parties and going to the tea room have become a special mother-daughter activity for us. (And why is the photo I want from that party the only one I can’t find?)

For your fourth birthday, Grace wanted a Little Mermaid party and Meg wanted a Wizard of Oz party, so we came up with the dress up theme. Grace was a mermaid but Meg abandoned the idea of Dorothy and opted to be a fairy. The party itself was hysterical; it never occurred to me that your friends would strip down to their panties to change costumes. Every time I turned around there was a nearly naked little buddy reaching for a dress and pearls.

We had a mock sleepover for your fifth birthday. You got to pick out your jammies, gifts for each other, and popcorn flavors. I caved and didn’t make Grace wear a big bow. Suddenly you weren’t shy at your own party. “The times they are a changing.”

Last year, you turned six and it seemed like such a grown up sounding number. (But girls, seven puts six to shame.) You were able to help with planning and crafting for your party. You stuffed the goody bags and it was just a hoot to watch you enjoy it all so much.

I’m sure you feel our mixed messages as you turn seven.

We are ready for you to be more independent in many ways. (Really girls, I do not need to walk you to the the potty. You can handle it. I have complete faith in your ability to walk down the hall by yourselves.)

But I also still want you to sit on my lap and reach for my hand. I hope you keep wanting me to teach you new things. I hope you still want me to be your most favorite playmate. Don’t get grown too fast, little ladies.

Love, Mommy