When my daughter was born I was consumed with learning how to change diapers, how to make sure she got enough food and most importantly, how to get more sleep!  The awe that something so small could create so much joy, love and work was befuddling.  And then you figure it out.  You get caught up in the play dates, school assignments, plays…basically the daily minutiae of life.  And suddenly your daughter is asking to stay home alone while you run that 20 minute errand.  She is downloading songs on her iPod that you have NEVER heard of and she has a definite opinion of what real style is and begs you to “Please don’t wear your gym clothes when you pick me up at school!”

So on this day that she is turning 10, I ask myself “Were the diapers, baths and no sleep easier?”  Would I be willing to go back if I had a chance?  Would I enjoy pregnancy the second time around rather than fight it every step of the way if I knew what I know today?”  Oh, how I miss her toddling around unsteadily while she is learning how to walk. 

But I love our thought-provoking conversations.  I love her inquisitiveness.  I love that she has taught me what motherhood is and is not.  Difficult, yes.  Tiring, yes.  Beautiful, yes.  And on this day, I confirm (if only with myself) that I would not trade turning 10 with anything.  But, instead, I must now prepare for what 10, 11 and even beyond will bring, as well as, teach me.