Happy Birthday Neva!
It’s so crazy to think that 8 short years ago, I met my little Neva… I once heard that children pick their parents. It’s some kind of spiritual thing about incarnation and destiny, but I don’t know, I never thought of it much. Lately, Neva, it’s all I think about, because I think you chose us to be your parents. I think you have so much to teach us… more than I could’ve imagined.
I have grown so much because of you and I want to take a moment to share why. I think perhaps I had certain ideas of what my life would be like with 2 daughters and a son. I thought I would know exactly what to dress you in, what kind of parties to throw you, what kind of things you’d like, what you’d dislike, and so on. Of course I left tons of space for within these set ideas I had for you to cultivate your own personalities and become the individuals you are all becoming. But, no matter how much space I made, you are here to create a world of your own.
You taught me that there are a myriad of ways to be and become. You’ve taught me to be more open-minded and more expansive in my beliefs. You’ve taught me to always expect the unexpected. And, you’ve taught me that I’m not done learning.
I remember a few years ago when you asked for a zootherapy birthday party, I had no idea what that meant! But, I began my research and had a zoo of animals made available to you and your friends so you can feel the calm and relaxing effects of being around animals and nature. Two years ago you surprised me yet again with your wish for a skateboarding party – I wasn’t surprised that this is something you’d like, you’re my daughter after all, I know you well. But, there was something so fearless about you knowing what you want and asking for it despite what might have been a more obvious choice. Your daringness is just so normal to you, but Neva, I want you to know that I see you, and you are brave and let your strength continue to be your enduring guide in life.
Last year, we had your basketball party – super simple in our new home. I loved seeing you so happy. That brings us to quarantine birthday parties and your 8th bday being celebrated just us. I was on the fence about how you’d feel about it, but it didn’t shock me to hear you say that you were happy to be with just your family. I am so happy you feel the unconditional love we all have for you. I hope the safety of our home and the love in our hearts propels you in life to whatever height you choose to reach, because trust me, we are all here rooting you on and celebrating you.
It’s usually so hard for me to snap a photo with you – you usually beg to be excluded. Yet there you go again, a few days ago, surprising me in ways I couldn’t have predicted. Fully dressed, camera-ready, you came running down the stairs, looked at me and said, “Mom, I want to take photos with you today.” A huge part of me was excited because you wanted to spend time with me and take pictures that we could cherish forever, but the other part of me was beaming with laughter because, just when I think I figured you out… well, suffice to say, Neva, you keep me on my toes.
Thank you for choosing me as your mother. Together we will continue to grow and learn – and if there is just one thing I could teach you, it’s that my love for you is UNCONDITIONAL. I love you sweetheart. Happy birthday!
Photography by Patricia Brochu