So, as I mentioned after opening all my gorgeous gifts I had a speech prepared, but it got so long, I wouldn't dare ... besides, every time I played it out, I started to cry, so ... well, that just wouldn't do. So, here's my not so brief speech:
Mom: You always say how much like my father I am – I can hear you say it now: “Like Father, Like Daughter”. You’ve even said how we seem to share a special bond. Maybe we do – when it comes to home improvements and shopping!!
But when it comes to parenting there are several lessons that I could only have learned from you. They are life lessons that have carried me through this world safely and securely.
Because of you:
I have always learned from my mistakes (and the mistakes of others);
I always try to treat others how I want to be treated;
I don’t lie, because it’s always easier to tell the truth; and
I NEVER run with scissors.
These simple life lessons reflect a fundamental parenting style that I hope to mirror as I raise Hadley. Thank you for these valuable lessons … I love you (I know I don't say that often enough).
To my Sisters … how much more different can three sisters be??? Very!! Which is precisely why I need to address each of you separately.
Carol, we’re closest in age and miles apart. Despite the distance, we’ve managed to maintain a very close and very special friendship. How does that happen?? Must be “sister-magic”. When we were growing up together, we fought like the worst enemies, and next thing you know, we were traipsing through the mall together. I guess as the miles separated us, we fought just as hard to maintain that friendship. Thank you for keeping the fight alive!! I’m looking forward to continuing to carry on the same traditions we’ve enjoyed over the years – except with one more little girl.
Sue, growing up you were so much older. When you're 6 and your sister is 14, well, that's a huge divide -- almost a generation! You were such an enigma to me. I was a little baby when you were already out chasing boys!! I was just a “tween” (although we didn’t call them that then) when you had your first baby, Sheri. Sometimes, I feel distant from you, but what ties us together is the product of precisely those circumstances – a little girl named Sheri, through whom we will always stay connected. And, for that connection I am grateful.
Mary – our generosity of the heart has been such great support to me. How fortunate I am to live right across the street from my first cousin!! When I moved into my new home almost nine years ago, I never thought we would share so many of the same interests, and form such a close bond so quickly. I love the time we spend together, whether comparing garden plans, shopping!!, or just meeting up after work – always spur of the moment, and always fun. I can’t wait to drag Hadley along on our weekend jaunts!!
My "Girls" … you all know who you are. Our friendships go back as far as junior high school, and run as deep as the ocean – through thick and thin as they say. You are each, in your own individual way, so special to me. Every one of you a rock that I've leaned on in tough times. I want to thank you for supporting me in this journey. It’s been a long five years, during which you never once doubted me, always supported me and celebrated every moment with me. Life is about to change dramatically for me. While I may not have as much time and flexibility as I’ve had in the past, I hope you’ll understand and still love me despite the fact that I’ll be toting a toddler about.
Sheri – my travel slave. You’re like a little sister to me, and I am so proud of all your achievements. You have grown into a beautiful, caring, gentle, kindhearted, respectful, dependable, smart, curious, adventurous … the list goes on for miles. Suffice it to say, I’m a huge fan!! I chose my travel companion carefully for these qualities. I cannot thank you enough for agreeing to accompany me on this journey, and for never wavering in your decision. Never – even for one minute – think that I don’t appreciate the sacrifice you are making to accompany me on this journey. I hope that our trip to China enriches your life.
My China Moms – If it were not for this journey, I would never have met any of you!!! To think that one little personal message on Rumor Queen could trigger a circle of friendship that continues to grow. Thank you for sharing so much of your China experiences with me. You have no idea what a comfort it is for me to know that I have such a wonderful support network in all of you.
I’ve mentioned only a handful of those most special to me. Of course, every one of my Guests were invited because I think of them as part of my own special “Family”. So, with that said, I would be remiss if I didn’t thank all of the Hadley Girls, for lending Hadley such a meaningful name … I can’t think of a better way to start my daughter’s new life than with a name that, to me, means lifelong family friendship. I can only hope she enjoys the warmth and security that her name bestows upon her in meaning.
Thank you all for coming!!
