little letter to elizabeth

Precious girl,

I wish I could tell you better how much I love you. How grateful I am for today.  How I want to hold on to it; a glimmer of the diamond of our future amidst the rough of our everyday.

Today, just you and me went to the library and wandered, losing ourselves in the stacks.  With a quick breath, you nearly ran to find the ones you wanted, saying Mom, you really ought to read this one. We checked out more than we could carry. The new cafe had just opened upstairs – fresh cookies, warm coffee in our little library!  We drank sweetness and wondered at the beautiful new space.

Today, we went to the best little local gear store; terrifically overpriced stuff we’ve never seen but are certain we now need crammed into a tiny little old house.  Canoes hanging over our heads. We bought ski gloves on sale.  You pointed out the water bottles that are my favorite.

Today, we wandered through a bead store; what could possibly be more captivating – all the colors, sizes, shine. I think you looked at every single one, bringing over the ones you loved best, picking out a necklace for your aunt. You wanted her to have something just from you on her birthday.

Today, we ate junk food together by the river and talked about school.

And then tonight, wonder of wonders, you bought a new camera.  You’ve saved for weeks.  Months, really. It’s hard for you not to spend.  You’ve worked for extra money.  Your dad and brothers took you shopping, and in a special grace, found a $220 camera on sale for $84.  It was just my price, Mom! you said.  Sitting here on the couch tonight, reading the book, finding all the ways it works, you turned to me and said, it feels so good Mom, that I saved and now it’s mine.  I really have it and it’s really mine. Just like when you bought yours.

Just like that, sweetheart.

I know that you are not exactly me, but I love all the ways that you are.  And, the ways that you aren’t.  I can’t wait to find out even more just exactly who you’re turning out to be…