To My Daughter On Her 3rd Birthday.

At this time, three years ago today, I was trying to will myself out of an anesthesia-induced stupor so that I could get to know my little girl.  ER was born on April 15, 2010 at 12:37am via emergency C-section, 11 hours after an ineffective induction and very little, if any at all, actual labor.  The birth I had envisioned?  Hardly.  The result I expected?  I could never have expected it could be this awesome :)

So, ER, today I would like to impart some words of motherly wisdom to you.  Judging by your activities over the past year, I think you're already picking up on some of these lessons...

May you always be prepared in case of an emergency.

May you always have the desire to fly higher than you thought you could.

May you always be hospitable and kind.

May you always find a time, and a place, for reading.

May you always have the confidence to let others know just how you are feeling.

May your love of the beach be without limit.

May you always make time for music.

May you always know the value of one, really good girlfriend.  

May you always have an adventurous spirit and be willing to try new things.

May you always be open to changing your perspective.

May you always feel a rush of joy when getting a new outfit.

May you have the ability to delegate.

May you always make new friends, of all shapes, sizes, and colors.

May you always have the strength to share your love.

May you never forget just how far you have come.