I would never

Today is my girl's birthday. (July 7) I've been trying to hold it off as long as I can. I've plugged my ears and yelled "LALALALA!" I've tried to flat out deny it, buying a gift only at the last minute. I've postponed her party. And I may or may not have had a little fit about it! But it cannot be stopped. She's 12!
I will try to write the rest of this, however long it's going to be, without crying. She would like that.
12 is not the end of the world, of course, and I'm actually glad she's 12. I used to say, "Great, Audrey's doing this." or "Oh man, here we go." about something so minute like teething or walking, etc. And then I learned to appreciate all those changes. And that outlook changed everything. If I never wanted her to grow up, then I would never get to hear her play her trumpet or improvise on the piano. I would never get to read all of her short stories or hear her sing her little songs. I would never be able to have great conversations with her about most anything- books, movies, friends, God, food, blogs, music, computer help, fashion, etc. And I would never get to see her sweet smile grow more and more every day. (Ok, that last sentence caused a little wetness in my eyes, but no actual tears yet.)
I love you, Audrey! Happy Birthday!