My dear, darling birthday girl,
Now you are three. We've spent the past week telling stories about your birth and watching the video over and over. This video starts with Aunt Shishie reenacting one of my contractions as she and I sit on the couch, and then skips to you in the hospital room, all wrinkled and noisy, being weighed and swaddled, quieting down only when you are placed back in my arms, where--if you listen very closely--you can hear me say, "I can't believe how much you look like your Dad."
You were delighted by this video, so excited that the baby was you, and you snuggled close against me as we watched ourselves snuggling for one of the very first times. You were particularly interested in the nurse who swaddled you. "Who is that?" you asked. "That's Barbara," I said. And now at bedtime you ask me to tell you the story about Barbara.
You are having a big party today, your first ever birthday party. Most of your friends from preschool are coming, and a lot of friends from other classes and the neighborhood. Teacher Lenka from music class will be performing, and I will be giving all the kids temporary tattoos. Because it's a music themed party, I want you all to feel like rockstars. Nonnie made cookies in the shape of musical notes and we are lugging our big Bose soundsystem to the rec center, where we will play all of your favorite CDs while you and your friends dance. Also there will be cupcakes. What could be better?
Scarlett, you are literally the most wonderful thing that has ever happened to me, and I know Dad agrees. We love your feistiness, your sweetness, your humor, your independence, your smile...we just love YOU!
Happy birthday!!
Love,
Mom
