No More Teens

Today marks the 20th birthday of one of the best people I know. She's smart and beautiful inside and out. She is brave and fearless, and battles things daily that I will never face the rest of my life. She is giving and one of the most selfless people you will ever meet. If you know her, your life is richer for that. If you don't know her, you need to, because you will have gone through life missing out on one of the greatest gifts you could receive, her friendship. I am talking about my youngest daughter. On a bitterly cold day on February 1, 1996, I set out to the hospital to have my baby, the second child for me. Growing up I can't remember dreaming of being a mother. I can't even recall mothering a doll when playing house, but I would not trade my years as a mother for anything! I have seen so many mother/daughter relationships that have no communication beyond obligatory "how was your day?" and "do you have homework?" I have had in depth discussions about everything, and I mean everything with Georgi, and I have learned so much from her. When most 20 year olds cannot wait to get out of the house,away from their parents, we have discussions about how we want to decorate the house we live in together. Some people think that's weird or unnatural. You know what I think? They are jealous and wish they were so fortunate as I. I received a text from her just this past Friday. It said simply, "Thank you for being amazing!" My response: "Why am I amazing?" Hers back to me: "You just are." I must have done something right. I love you so much, little girl! Happy Birthday!