a school yard birthday

I really like birthdays. I think of them as a time to remember exactly why I love the people I love. Growing up, we didn't celebrate our birthdays and I was always sad about that. Missing Christmas never bothered me, but I sure wanted a party the year I turned 10.

Anyway, I usually go on here about my friends on their birthdays, and today will be no exception.

Today is the birthday of my very very very good friend Sheryl. Her son is my dear friend and he introduced us a few years ago. She very well could have disregarded me as I imagine most parents would, but instead she took the time to get to know me, and I simply could not imagine my life without her in it. She is a wonderful mother, wife and friend. I learn something new every time I see her. She is amazingly smart and talented and artistic and beautiful and wise and kind and I am more grateful for having her in my life than I could ever tell you.

This one is kind of hard for me. You see, I have these issues with women, particularly mother-figures, and she is the first woman in my life that I have trusted and loved easily, and don't think that doesn't scare the bejesus out of me. I sometimes think I have the words for how I feel about her, but I know I don't really. I guess I never will.

I just love you. I don't know how else to say it. Thank you for you, for all that you are. You make every day of mine a little better. I am so glad you were born. Thank you for your family, who I could not live without. Thank you for your stories, your time, your friendship.

I love you. My kids love you. Happy Birthday.