Today is my daughter's 10th Birthday. Our family is making a big deal about how she's in "double digits," and she's started calling herself a "tween." (Gulp!) I'm trying to figure out how it all sped past me so quickly.

This has been a ten-year learning curve and, I suspect, it's not likely to stop any time soon. Still, when I look back, I see unmistakeable lessons that will always be true.

1. She's worth the weight.

Sure, I gained 61 lbs (Ahem - no comments, please!), but that's O.K. I don't mind. You can lose the weight, eventually. However, the body's never the same. In fact, there's a piece of your heart ripped from your body and crawling, walking, running, and some day DRIVING entirely outside of your control. Compared to the emotional minefield of parenting, shedding a few pounds is easy.

2. You never get tired of seeing her face.

The first time we saw our daughter's face was through a 3D ultrasound. Technology is cool, but life's a bigger miracle. As much as the idea of a little girl is thrilling, the reality of one is better still.

3. Pink is fantastic.

I've fully discovered this truth by embracing the "girly-ness" of a kid who digs frills, lace, and everything pretty. Pink is pretty, just like my kid.

4. Girls rock!

The drama, the emotion, the sweetness; we love having a girl who adds depth and dimension to all that we do. And did I mention the quantity of pink?

5. Dogs are part of the family.

We must celebrate the pup's birthday, fill his stocking at Christmas, and let him snuggle with us on the bed. There is a mutual admiration society, and the parents can't shake the bond between a girl and her dog.

6. Stay close.

Multi-tasking is never ideal, but it's always more fun with company. Flexibility is the name of the game, and a daughter teaches you how to manage nap time, chat on the phone, and not burn dinner at the same time.