So Grateful

As most of you know, I have really struggled to connect with Kylee after the age of 3. I think that because we are so much a like we really butt heads a lot. She's defiant and argues with me all the time.
Tonight we went on a mini date to DQ for ice cream cones. She was making me laugh with all the funny things she was saying. I asked her about school and what she likes. "I like math review. Its fun" At one point tonight she told me she ran into a girl from her class at the store. "She's Nicole's best friend." I replied "Do you have a best friend?" She said "No. I am best friends with everyone. It would hurt someones feelings if I only had one best friend." She is so sweet and so wise.
Tonight as she was eating her ice cream, I watched her and saw a real person. Not just a child, but a person. Kylee is kind, thoughtful, caring, funny and smart. I adore her so much, even if she does argue with me 90% of the time.
When Ky comes home from school, she immediately wants to go play with friends. Sometimes no one can play and she gets upset and says she's bored. Tonight I talked to her about this. I told her that when she is bored she should play with her brother. "But he's annoying. He always wants to play in his room." I reply "He may be annoying, but wouldn't it be lonely if you didn't have him for a brother? Wouldn't it be worse if you didn't have a brother or anyone at home to play with?" She thought about it and said "You're right. I should play with him. I can teach him how to play barbies and color in the lines. " Proud mother RIGHT HERE!
Finally, as I was driving home from our date, she said "I love you so much that I will never stop saying it." I sure hope that's true.
I learned tonight that I am actually enjoying her getting older. I really couldn't be more proud of her! Not to mention, her teacher told me she's one of the top readers in her class. She said Kylee is a beautiful singer and is always so nice to everyone. How did I get so blessed?!