Happy Birthday Lindsey!

Tomorrow is my oldest daughter (oh...and best buddy), Lindsey's 26th b-day! How did that happen! I swear she was just born in Denver, CO, on fathers day..and she happened to be on the news because of that (along with her Dad!).

Lindsey was not easy as a baby..she had colic...so bad! It would start with her just kind of wimpering around 6 pm (yes...I remember all the details!!), and it would gradually go into a full-blow-crying and I felt so bad for her and at the same time I was going nuts! Her Dad worked afternoons, so I didn't have help...and sometimes, well...most nights (sorry Lindsey), I would just have to put you in your crib and let you cry for awhile while I took a little breather.

Okay--so I haven't forgotten that! I never said being a Mom was easy! But guess what? It is still the best job in the entire universe! Despite all the trials and tribulations....I give my unconditional love to all three of my kids. That means no matter what they do, no matter what they become...I will be there, I will love them, and I hope they always know that. If they ever think they're alone, they are not...I'm here whether it's physically or spiritually, I will be there!

Okay-so back to Lindsey! I was fortunate enough to be able to be a stay-at-home Mom.. It wasn't that I was wealthy; her Dad had a pretty good job with United Airlines, but we certainly could have used my income. I just drove a "clunker" and didn't buy all the clothes that I do now! I will never forget this time Lindsey (probably around 3) and I were in a store and I was admiring and wishing I could have this certain dress (or something--I don't even remember what it was) and Lindsey handed me a nickel-and said "here Mom, now you can get it"! I saved that nickel. For years I kept a journal of my Mom-days-with Lindsey-and that is in the journal!

If you're a new Mom-or even an "old" mom (like I am now!!) I highly recommend writing ajournal. For me writing is therapeutic. When I have something tough I'm going through (like my Mom's death), writing helps me sort things out...to pour out all of my emotions. The same was true with me keeping a journal as a young Mom with Lindsey. The good, the bad, and the ugly..all written down!

Sorry, Lindsey, I keep digressing! It's your birthday tomorrow...and after all my babbling...I just want to say how lucky I feel to have you as a daughter and a friend. All the "friends" that have come and gone...well, that's okay!! I have you! My cute little Lindsey (well, you still are pretty teenie!!).

Happy Birthday Lindsey...I love you..and I am so proud of you!

I hope this is the best b-day ever!

Love,

Mom