My Baby is 8

Up to the night before Riley was born, I remember worrying that there wasn't any way that I could possibly love another human being as much as I loved Sylvia. Of course, from the moment I saw Riley - 8 years ago Saturday - I realized that love is boundless. If it could be measured, I'm sure that I love her more today than I did that first day of her life.

Riley has always seemed to me to be a very old soul. She's incredibly observant (particularly when she thinks you're not paying attention), empathetic, bright, and can light up anyone's day. At the same time, she has no problem speaking her mind, and sometimes scares me with her seemingly fearlessness.

She was a very easy baby. As a toddler, she didn't have tantrums. She came to school, eager to learn.

She does, however, have a streak of stubbornness and independence that she hasn't quite matured into yet. The good news is I don't think she'll ever be a victim of anyone besides herself. Her life will be entirely what she makes of it.

Most of the time, I feel like she's a better person than me. She has learned early how to love someone, yet not see them through rose-colored glasses. She instinctively puts herself in someone else's shoes before judging. She may come across as shy upon a first meeting, but really, she's just holding back, allowing the other person to shine. But when it's her turn to take center stage, she knows how to milk it for all its worth!

She is charming, yet sincere. She knows she's gorgeous, but keeps it in perspective. She's eager to explore anything and everything that life has to offer, and can cope with disappointment.

She's not perfect, but close enough for me!

I'm honored to be Riley's mother, and look forward to what she will teach me in her 8th year.