Where did the time go?

I blinked and Ashley grew up. From the cute little thumb sucker to a beautiful young woman. We just celebrated her 18th birthday at Disneyland and were thankful it did not rain. I remember the day they placed this sweet little dark hair child in my arms. She found her thumb right away, and I knew this was her way of comforting herself. Then she would cuddle me and suck her thumb and rub my ear, and she included me in her circle of comfort. But as often happens a child will broaden their circle of comfort to include siblings, friends and when the time is right a spouse. Though I know this is how it is to be, I miss those days when I was her only source of comfort. But even though in my selfish thoughts I want this, I am thankful to those that have been there and will continue to be there for her. I am thankful for the beautiful woman she is becoming. For the laughs we have shared, and tears we have shed together. For being my only brown eyed child. I need someone to pass brown eyes to my future grandchildren.(ha-ha)

Enjoy the journey Ashley. Stop to enjoy each and every stage. For you too, will blink and wonder. Where did the time go?