I've watched you blossom
from a delicate flower
into a young woman with
the power and determination
to accomplish anything she sets her mind to.
I remember just yesterday
when I held you in my arms
and you would twist
my hair through your fingers.
I remember how you
would come to me when
you were hurt or sad
and I'd wipe the tears away
and make everything all better with just a kiss.
Eventually a kiss didn't take away the hurts that you endured,
but you overcame them effortlessly,
and you made me proud.
You will always be my baby,
but now you are also a grown woman
that I am proud to call my daughter.
I want you to know how proud
I am of your achievements.
You are everything I hoped
you would grow up to be,
and then some.
You are my daughter,
and I love you.