Dear Cordelia,

Sweet baby girl, how precious you are to me! It seems just a few days ago I first held you in my arms, marveling at your very existence.  I loved you so much, even though I really didn't know you.

(I'm not sure if this is a photo taken by me or by your Daddy.)

I loved you even before I experienced the sweet way you hug with your whole being, laying your head on my shoulder and wrapping your legs around me.  I did not yet know the joy of your sweet little girl kisses or the feel of your hand in mine as we walk down a sidewalk.  I'd not seen you blow kisses to me from your carseat as your parents drive you away.

I had no idea of the quirky ways your little personality would develop.  I didn't know you would say to me, "Grandma, you fine?"  I didn't know you would look at one of my wounds and offer to kiss it while telling me, "Be careful Grandma!"  I didn't know your hair would "float" around your face reminding me of a halo.  I didn't know you would often start to call me Momma and end up calling me "Momma-Grandma".  I didn't know you'd love pumpkins and balls and crackers and berries and drums and Wonder Pets and PlayDough and BIIIIIG trucks and airplanes and bouncing on the trampoline with Grandpa and birds and ceramic backyard animals and the mole on my right arm.   I know those things now and so those things are important to me as well. 

I've loved having you in our family these last 2 years.  You have added a new level of fun and joy. I look forward to all the years ahead and all the chances to get to watch you grow and learn and love and be loved.

Happy Birthday Cordelia Rose!