Happy Birthday My Sweet Girl

How did this occur
that I would have been given
the sweetest and most loving
little girl,
in the whole, wide world?

She is becoming into
a fine young lady
who I am very proud of!

I enjoy how frank she is -
most of the time.
She does not like bully's
and stands up for those who are hurt.

She is firm and kind,
funny and serious about life,
a lady and yet can hold her own
with all the young men in her life.

I see her becoming into
the woman God created her to be.
She is such a help, a joy
and a wonderful daughter and friend
to me.

Today she grabbed my hand
and we swung them back and forth
as we walked in public.
How sweet is that?
I know things may change
as older she becomes
but I am in denial -
hoping she is the exception
to the rule.

Happy Birthday my dear girl.
May you continue to love our Jesus
with all your heart and soul.
And may He fill you
with His love for your neighbors -
and all you find yourself with.

My dear girl,
don't let anything capture your heart.
Keep worshiping
and never your allegiance swerve.
Joy in Him is cultivated
and yours in Him shows.

I love you Katherine -
my 11 year old girl.