Happy BIrthday, Mary!

That beautiful smile.  Always that beautiful smile.  And yes, you were the one who coined it, who said, "I love you in the moon."  

You were the tranquil one, very much a peaceful one.   You were also one who spoke your mind, often in defensive of others but also to make sure I knew what was up.

"Hmm!," you, almost 3 yrs old, sulking at the bottom of the stairs when I asked you for the 10th time to please get dressed, "You ALWAYS make me do my jobs!"

               You have little one's now.  You know they will play anywhere and with anything.

You always, always looked out for the younger crew.  You delighted in their achievements and truly celebrated their successes.  

You were with them; playing and wrestling and dancing and singing and admonishing and advising and comforting.  You were very much the voice of reason.   It's little wonder all your siblings were drawn to you then and are drawn to you now.  

Dad told me how glad he was to have been there with you, at the Father Daughter Dance at East Catholic.  

I remember that seconds after I took this picture, Martha tried to grab a chunk out of you hair! 

Oh, that haircut :)

This picture?  Just because I love it. 

                   And I just sent you a Happy BIrthday greeting on your phone.  Just now :)

                  HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Dear Mary