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"lost letters" is what the email said...

My mother sent me the cutest email today.

"I get it. Let Alan read your christmas letter and he'll get it too. I was trying to reduce the excess clothing in my drawers and came across every mother's day card you ever created in grades 1-5. I am truly a PackRat. But these were the highlights of your creations. We do share a special connection. Hopefully there will be some insight for Alan that kids can argue with you but still love you. and yes you have been drawing on your body forever. You are my most colorful child...."

In the email she included the following:








(see, even at an early age I was preparing for my 1st tattoos!)

It was a lovely little gift. It came on the heals of a conversation we had while she was here for the holidays. I was trying to explain how my husband and I have different ways of viewing and handling holidays. I understand his reasoning and respect where he comes from.

I tend to run on full speed into November. Being a November baby it means my birthday (and now my husbands too!), Thanksgiving, several friends birthdays, Solstice, nephew's birthday, then Christmas and now my stepson's birthday. It's weeks of plotting, planning, gathering and celebrating. All of which also includes surrounding myself with good friends and family and as you can see above, I have always been this way.

I especially enjoyed the birthday card I made for her. By my hand writing, I am guessing I was in middle school then - I was really into writing my "a" differently. I love that I lay it out there, "even though we fight a lot, I still love you dearly." Some of my friends (and husband!) might agree that I haven't changed much. Less fighting, and lots of loving is how I try to live in the world now. And it still rings true, she is my best friend - always has been, always will be. I know I am a very lucky girl that way.

Anyways, it was a fun way to end the year. It's nice to recognize that caring, loving little girl is still alive inside of me, know matter how many challenges or heart breaks and how I have grown and changed. Thanks Mom & Dad, I owe you.
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