The Fourth Letter

Birthdays, friends, and growing up

My little love,

How are you these days? Is school fun? Something tells me you’ve started going more willingly now (I was the same). I hope you’ve made some friends you like, the kind who share their snacks and secrets and laugh with you about things only the two of you understand.

Have you thought about what you want to do for your birthday party? I can already picture the streamers and balloons, the tiny paper crowns, and the frosting all over your hands. I hope your dad lets you pick the theme; maybe something with flowers or fairies or even dragons if that’s what you’re into this year.

Do you talk a lot? I used to babble endlessly when I were little, and I hope you’re the same, so I can try to listen to it from wherever I am. Forge and keep that, my darling. Keep the way you fill up a room with your voice and your laughter.

And if anything ever feels too big or too scary or too new, remember that there are people who love you. They all want to see you happy.

You are growing faster than I can imagine, but don’t grow up too quickly, my heart. Stay little a while longer, and keep that spark of joy that makes you, you.

Love,
Ariadne