Twenty three....wheeeeeeee!

Darn! old age, hormones, watery eyes or just plain being sappy but my baby girl turned 23 today and my heart is singing and crying at the same time. I love celebrating every single year that I've been blessed with her in my life but this year just seems even more precious.

Taking a walk down memory lane, I am reminded of how in awe she was over the little things in life. From the moment she was placed in my arms, I knew that she was created for something special. She has shown me over and over again, just how special she really is.

Jarebear, you have been the wind beneath my wings in so many moments of my life lately. I don't know how I didn't get tired of taking a leap until I realized that I wasn't leaping alone...that I had company...YOU! Thank you for always reminding me of my favorite saying, "Feel the fear and do it any way." Even when I was shaking like a hot dog at a weenie roast, you were there to hold my hand. 

I cherish how much time I've had to hold your hand as you grew up into a woman that didn't need her "Mamasan" the same way anymore. I'm so very proud of who you are and how you've embraced life with pure joy. Thank you for holding me even when I felt like tossing my cookies or when we went thrift store shopping and I was ready to die from germ infestation...you were and always are so very strong.

I have gained so much strength because of who you are. I remember when you were training as a gymnast and I was asked to name a hero and the first person I chose was you. You will always be my hero for showing me strength and the never giving up determination you had and still have, even through the pain and discouragements. Thank you for reminding me that life is way too short to worry about what other people think.

I hope that your birthday will be just as special as you are. I look forward to growing old and watching you grow in grace and love with Oly (Orlando) by your side. I hope that your birthday is the best one yet.

I love you so very much, Jarani Taja! You mean the world to me!

PS---hurry up and get married so I can be a Grammy!

Love you forever and always,

Mamasan