Happy birthday, my daughter
Dear Mary,
You're old enough to read this, but possibly not old enough to understand it yet. I think. Sometimes I wonder at how much is going on inside your brain, usually just before a loud noise happens. I'd blame that on your father's genes, but your Grandpa Jim would disagree with me, at length. That's what grandfathers do.
You know how much your father and I love you, and I think you're starting to grasp how much we worry about you, too. The ordinary parental fears that come with a sometimes hyperactive child who keeps overcoming whatever protections we put in your way. The more complicated fears that have to do with whose daughter you are, and your connection to your Grandfather Bruce.
But if there's one thing I've learned over the years, especially from your Aunt Dinah, it's that you can't always protect the people you love, even when you're trying your best. But we'll keep trying, Peanut, and part of trying is teaching you how to protect yourself. At least, that's what I keep telling myself, and your father.
Now, if you can just avoid giving either of your aging parents a heart attack before you turn 18, that would be very much appreciated.
Love, Mom
You're old enough to read this, but possibly not old enough to understand it yet. I think. Sometimes I wonder at how much is going on inside your brain, usually just before a loud noise happens. I'd blame that on your father's genes, but your Grandpa Jim would disagree with me, at length. That's what grandfathers do.
You know how much your father and I love you, and I think you're starting to grasp how much we worry about you, too. The ordinary parental fears that come with a sometimes hyperactive child who keeps overcoming whatever protections we put in your way. The more complicated fears that have to do with whose daughter you are, and your connection to your Grandfather Bruce.
But if there's one thing I've learned over the years, especially from your Aunt Dinah, it's that you can't always protect the people you love, even when you're trying your best. But we'll keep trying, Peanut, and part of trying is teaching you how to protect yourself. At least, that's what I keep telling myself, and your father.
Now, if you can just avoid giving either of your aging parents a heart attack before you turn 18, that would be very much appreciated.
Love, Mom