To my little miss adventurer,

Four years ago, I brought you out into this world. By sheer luck, it only took me less than 30 minutes to get through that whole ordeal and, for that, I am very thankful. Was it because you were so excited to see and explore the world that you almost didn’t wait for the doctor to arrive?

I know we went through a rough start. I was, after all, only beginning to build my career and yet, you came into our lives. I wasn’t sure how to handle it all. I was the youngest in the family and had no experience with kids…how was I supposed to take care of you? I had to get assurance from your dada that he would be there to take care of me and you, even if it meant that I had to be the breadwinner of the family. I didn’t mind.

But I was pleasantly surprised at how doting a mom I was to you. I wanted you to experience everything about the world, just like any mom would. I wanted to give everything to you, as long as I was capable of providing it.

And yet, no matter how I tried to plan things perfectly, things never seemed to go as I wanted. Looking back, I was glad my mindset had made a 180-degree turn. I wanted to be a career woman climbing up the corporate ladder and yet, here I am, freelancing, working from home and facing so many uncertainties, just so I could assure you my presence all throughout your childhood and maybe even beyond.

I am very grateful for having you as my dear daughter. I am constantly in awe at your wisdom, creativity, imagination and your intelligence. How was I capable of bearing such a strong-willed, independent little girl? Someone who…was so much just like me, your dada would constantly remind me.

I won’t keep this long but always remember, my little one, that I will do anything and everything for you if I really have to. I still stand by that you-try-it-out-make-a-mistake-and-learn-from-it principle but you know what I mean.

Do grow up but never grow old. And never leave your creativity and your fierceness and your wisdom behind.

I love you to the moon and back my baby girl.

PS. And while I still can’t believe you’re four now, and we’re growing older, perhaps you are ready for…? Haha. Happy birthday my dearest Asha!

About the Author

Pam is an outdoors-loving millennial momma who loves to hike, trek and camp in the beaches and mountains with her partner and their 3-year-old daughter. When not exploring the great outdoors, she moonlights as a freelance writer specializing in the travel, parenting, personal finance and digital marketing niches. You can also follow her via social media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest!