Nine.

Dear Rals, 

If there were more Raleigh Janes in the world, this world would be a....

...sweeter place. Because you, Raleigh, are one of the sweetest souls I have ever known. You are so tender and so tender-hearted. You befriend and include all and are intimately attuned to and aware of others' feelings. You care for those who need caring and spread your sweetness wherever you go. You have the sweetest heart, and we could use more of that in this world. 

...smarter place. Rals, you are so smart! I love when I can see your wheels turning as you comprehend new material, thinking deeply about why things are the way they are and how things work the way they work. You have the smartest, most thoughtful soul that you put to good use, and we could use more of that in this world. 

...stronger place. You are as strong as you are soft, meaning you are the perfect balance of standing steady on your own two feet and also being a soft place to land. You lead quietly when needed but also stand behind those you love and trust. You are steadfast and strong, my girl, and we could use more of that in this world. 

...more nurturing place. Raleigh Jane, I will always think of nurturance when I think of you. A lover of any animal you meet, a momma to your many babies, a lover of precious little kiddos of all ages (you asked me to keep one Christmas card on display longer than the others this year: the one showcasing your newest baby cousin, Walker, because you wanted to be able to see him each day), a girl who will deeply impact many with her precious heart. You have the most nurturing personality, and we could use more of that in this world. 

...more helpful place. You, Rals, are the child who doesn't huff and puff nor roll your eyes nor complain, not even ONCE, when asked to do something. Dress your sister? Put away your laundry? Do the dishes? Straighten your room? Not a single complaint, not a single time. You have the most helpful heart, and we could use more of that in this world. 

...more beautiful place. Although your outer beauty takes my breath away - those beautiful blonde curls, that perfectly placed freckle on your cheek, those crystal blue eyes, those long lashes - it is your inner beauty that makes me so proud. You are what is beautiful and pure in this life, and we could use more of that in this world. 

...more special place. I will always, always thank God for entrusting me to help raise who, I believe, is one of the kindest, most amazing girls in the world. As I work so hard to raise you in kindness and gratitude, it is me who is learning how to be genuine and loving and thankful, from you. You make me want to be better, and do better, every day, Raleigh Jane. You are so, so special, and we could use more of that in this world. 

What an amazing world this would be with more Raleigh Janes in it. Today, I celebrate mine with the happiest of hearts. Happy 9th Birthday to you, Rals: my best pal, the light of the world, one of the greatest blessings of my life. May this year be filled with all the sweetness and kindness and gratitude and love and joy you bring to so many. Isn't she lovely...

With All My Heart, 

Momma