4

Oh, girl.  Happy 4. 

 

What a gift you are to this family of ours. 

When things get crazy and complicated...hard even...you are our easy.

 

Watching your dance shows and listening to your solos as you stand in bowed plastic heels and flowing princess gowns does a heart good.

 

We have packed, moved and unpacked and you are unshaken. 

 

You are brave, easy going, giving and sometimes wild.   

 

You can play by yourself in a room for hours, either not making a sound or softly pretending. 

 

You eat every single bite of your plate almost every single night. 

 

All the teachers at your school call you Claire-Bear. 

 

Your Chinese name is the name you most prefer.

 

You always find the person in the room who is going to give you the most attention and you hone in for some lovin'.

 

You are a survivor.  Strong, gentle and easy. 

 

Happy Birthday, baby girl.