Happy Birthday to my BABY

On the 18th anniversary of your arrival, I reflect upon some of the memories you've given me.

**When you were 3 and said "mom , I'll never leave you, we'll be angels in heaven together**

**How when I read to you each night you ALWAYS knew when I skipped something in the book**

**How I cried at your first dance recital when you were 4**

**How cute you looked at 5 on a pony**

**How proud I was of you when you entered into "Washington Gifted School**

**The recipe book your class made at school when you were 7, your OWN ideas of cooking**

**How lovely & excited you looked on the way to the Cottillion**

**Watching you sing & dance as a "hotbox girl" in Guys & Dolls in high school**

** The times you were so sad , you cut yourself & I told you I loved you more than life over & over**

**Our giggling when I taught you to drive & you weren't so good, ok you were BAD at driving**

**My heart sinking as YOU drove away last weekend, heading for you own apartment in your own car**

**How wonderful it was that you called today & said you felt awesome being 18 & independent**


As we both begin a new adventure, I know life will bring more wonderful & some not so wonderful
memories, but they will be OURS to share.



I love you Mercedes!!! your adoring mama, Deena