How did you get so big so fast?

My sweet lovely daughter, how did you get so big so fast?
I knew this was going to happen but I think... I don't know... I just thought I would still have a couple of years ahead to prepare myself.

It's wonderful to see how articulate, intelligent and beautiful you have become but it's so hard to see you getting ready to fly away. I guess deep inside I still see you as my little baby, so fragile and dependable. Please don't get me wrong. I am very proud to see you grow. The thing is I was getting used to being needed. And now, you seem to need me less and less everyday. I used to look forward to that but I am not so sure anymore. I just need some time to process it.

If I sometimes seem a little lost and I take a long time to make a decision as to letting you go somewhere or do something, please try to understand. This is also new to me and I was caught completely off guard.

Remember, this is my first ride too! I am trying to figure it out as we go, because, truth be told, I haven't got a clue. You are forcing me to create a new chapter in my Mom's Freaking Out book. And girl, this is a promising chapter. Believe me!

But that's ok. Really. We are all experiencing this new adventure. Let's just try to be pacient with each other, try to find a middle ground and most importantly, enjoy this as a family.

We brought you up with principles and values and now it's time to give you the opportunity to apply them in the real world, your world, the one you will build up for your future.

Don't be afraid.

Go get'em girl!

We will always be here for you. No matter what!