My Very Favorite Fishbein

I have a Fishbein and she is my very favorite one.

I have known my favorite Fishbein for more than 23 years, longer than anyone besides my siblings and parents. She is my friend who no matter the length of time we pick back up as if there hasn't been a lapse at all. There is a special camaraderie that is born from having that much of a history that can't be duplicated. It's even more special than a 'best' friend relationship, think Diana Barry and Anne Shirley. I am grateful that I can always be a little bit more affectionate with her than with most other friends and it isn't weird at all.

While life has given me the easier road most of the time (I say that not out of haughtiness, but of simple truth), I am grateful that she is able to offer advice on very tender matters from her experiences. While her trials are not easy for her, they have assuaged my sadness to a manageable state. I am grateful to her for that.

If you don't know my Fishbein, you should be sad you don't because she is special. I think she is awesome and one of my most admired heroes.

Thank you, my Fishbein.

3

Happy Birthday M!

You are 3 today, and I am so happy to be your mom. You have an infectious smile, you love to make me laugh. You are persistant, smart, funny, hugable, energetic, and tough. Thank you for picking me as your mother. I am content with you in my family, and grateful that you have stayed my baby for so long. Your dad adores you and your brother is your forever best friend.

I love you.

Grateful

Today I am feeling grateful for:

Feeling the wind on bare toes.

The regenerative properties of skin.

A fantastic park 1 block from the beach where kids can play for hours non-stop.

Wood puzzles + a two-year-old.

Questions answered through dreams.

Cuddle time with a 6-year-old.

Croquet and tag.