When did you grow up?

I see how you’re changing, I see that tomboy disappearing.

I see the woman that you will become.

Kind and beautiful,

sensitive and smart.

Your whole life lies ahead of you and my wish for you  -

as I remember the first time, twelve years ago,

that I held you in my arms,

fell in love with you,

breathed you in,

memorised every part of you

and

promised you that I would be the best mother I could be for you,

that one thing I want more than anything else for you

is happiness.

Be happy, my birthday girl, be happy.

Joyeux Anniversaire! (Happy Birthay in French because Happy Birthday in a posh English accent just doesn’t translate as well).

“Let the wild rumpus begin!” (or the High Tea, which is actually what we are doing today, to celebrate you).