to arianna

i gave birth to you early easter monday morning eleven years ago.

now i see you grow and i watch you with anticipation, with fear, with hope.

i pray that you will,

always be childlike

continue to ask questions

accept your weaknesses

realize your strengths and potentials

strive to be the best that you can ever be

be inspired to make a difference

never lose touch with family

never be wanting of real friends

find everlasting love and true happiness

be humbled and thankful for all your blessings

multiply your blessings by sharing them with others

happy birthday to you,

my dearest arianna.