Today is our daughter Becky's birthday. You know you're growing older when you look at your grown daughter with a child of her own and wonder where the time went.
I remember so well taking you home from the hospital. You were so small and helpless. Look at you now. Strong, Independent, Courageous, and living life with passion.
I remember holding you in my arms and thinking you were the sweetest baby in the world. It amazed me how instantaneously we both fell in love with your sweet face and little smiles. Everything you did was an adventure. We were your captivated audience and cheerleaders. You were always the first to lead the way, first to break the rules, first to try the boundaries, first to be brokenhearted by injustices, and first to pick out your own books and your own clothes.
Dad used to call you "his girl" but looking back now I'm sure you were always your own person, unique and fiercely independent.
I marveled at your determination in sports and academics. Looking back now, I don't remember a single challenge you didn't face, head on and overcome. I admire that in you, even though I don't always understand.
In many ways, you are the child most like your mother, and also least like your mother. What an amazing enigma. You are much more courageous and adventuresome than me and, in many ways, I try to be more like you. (Though I seriously doubt I'll ever be cutting edge in anything other than being a divine Diva for Emmalee!)
Know that I love and adore you and can't wait to be with you.
Momma
