Well, guess what? It's your birthday! Happy birthday, gorgeous, you deserve the world and nothing less. You are so special to so many people, and here's why.

Dear birthday girl,

As you become one year older, I suddenly feel old. You have come so far in your life and yet you have so much left to conquer. Your life has already had many ups and downs and I am proud of you for conquering all of them. So it's your birthday, and I am sure you are excited for the gifts the cake and all of that fun birthday stuff, but here's something else.

Don't forget to thank those around you, whether they're your friends, family or others. Don't forget to let them know how much they mean to you. I still remember when you were a little girl over at my house, and we would play outside together. I'm still not sure how it's possible that you're already this old, but you are. Time really does fly by, so take this to heart and enjoy every second. I know that you're probably overjoyed to be one year older and hoping to get more freedom, but cherish being young while you can. Because soon, you will be off in college and trust me, you will miss the ones that you used to never want to be around.

Never forget that you are still many people's little girl, and that will never change. You are one special kid. So don't let anyone tell you different. You are filled with talent and you brighten up the room as soon as you enter it. You are an amazing person and don't let anyone tell you differently. High school sucks. Trust me, I know, but enjoy it while you can, because you will miss it.

As you're opening up those presents and thinking, "Hey, I'm a year older now, this is awesome!" remember this. You are a blessing to so many of us. There are many of us who dread each birthday, not because we don't love you, but because we never want you to grow up. As you grow older, you will realize that the possibilities are endless for you. You are smart, gorgeous, talented and beyond sweet. There are so many great things about you. Honestly, too many to count!

There's so much I could say, but it would be very long, so to sum it all up, let me say this: You have an army of people who have your back, me included. You never are alone in this world. While sometimes it may feel like it, you aren't and you never will be. I, for one, will always be here for you, through the thick and thin. So when you start to think that you're alone and have no one beside you, just pick up that phone and give me a call, and I will be there to answer and tell you just how much I love you.

Happy birthday, gorgeous.