Celebrating Princess Be-Right-Back

Today the oldest of my younger nieces, Princess Be-Right-Back,  turned 18 years old. Happy birthday, precious girl!

I can still remember exactly where I was when my brother, Ironman, shared the news that he and Teacher were expecting a baby. I must confess, I don't remember the pregnancy announcements of any of the rest of my nieces or nephews, as much as I love them all. Weird how memory works. But I can clearly remember the excitement I felt standing in my office holding the telephone. I was so happy. And I couldn't wait to meet this new little addition to our family. And I can still remember the sense of  warmth and welcome I felt.

She is a gifted girl, woman now. She's many of the things I want to be when I grow up (if I ever really to do that)...
She's no push-over.
She's thinker whose strong convictions guide her behavior.
She's an artist with an eye for  powerful composition.
She's a fearlessly idealistic leader and a gentle servant to the needy.
She's unflaggingly persistent in her pursuit of excellence.

I'm excited to see where this next branch of life takes her.

  She's an athlete who's been kicking and pulling through life's waters most of her young life,

relying on her
strong  determination to finish any course before her

and an attitude of  kindness and grace. 

I flatter myself that in some ways I can see my younger self in her: a hopeful, strong and secure me.

If I could give her advice it would be to hold onto herself and her core of truth, regardless what life maight throw her way.

To glean wisdom from observation as well as experience.

Welcome to the adventure of being an adult.

Happy birthday to you, Be-Right-Back. 

With much love from Auntie Jen