*** Happy Birthday, Baby Girl ***

My baby girl turned 14 today. It seems like just yesterday you were born. I guess when life gives you a gift like Sarah, time does seem to fly. You see, Sarah is my last of 5 wonderful children. She came into my life at 40. Being a Dad is the hardest thing a man can do, and fortunate for me, by the time Sarah came along, I was somewhat more competent at the task, as well as being able to enjoy fatherhood. What a joy she has been. She has grown into one of the most sweetest and caring people I know. This little girl would rather die then hurt someones feelings. If a friend calls her and wants to hang out or spend the night, she is too polite to just say "Not today, I'm not feeling well" or something like that. She just covers the receiver and comes to me and asks what she should say. I tell her her friends will understand and not be mad at her for this, but she still continues to do it. I tell her if her friend gets mad about this, she is probably not a real friend. I have had this conversation with my baby numerous times. But that is the way my Sarah is. And I think it's wonderful. She hasn't been the easiest one to raise, none of them are, though. How many times has she brought joy to my day? Everyone of them since she was born.

When Sarah was 14 months old, her Mom was carrying her down the stairs when she slipped and fell. Sarah caught her leg on the handrail and broke it. Between the hip and knee. This meant a full body cast until it healed. This was one of the most terrifying things I have went through as a parent. I cannot describe the sickness I felt as we went to the hospital. Sarah was trooper through it all, though. She cried very little and managed to smile as they fixed her up. She got through it with no side effects, though she had to learn to walk again. It was very special seeing her take two first steps.

Sarah, this is to you;
You are the sweetest and most caring person I know. Don't EVER change. As you go through life, life will do it's best to wear you down. You will see and experience things you shouldn't have to. Don't let it change you. You love people and care about how they feel, and those are traits you need to keep. I always talk about the "5 Finger Friends", where in your life you will only have about 5 people that you can say are true friends, one for each finger on one hand. Well, I think you will need to grow more hands, baby girl. With your attitude, people will line up to claim one of your fingers.

Your mother and I wish you nothing but the best. Please stay in school (how many times have you heard that?). I only say this because I have to. You have already promised me that you will. And being the person you are, I know you will keep that promise. Thank you for being you....Dad

P.S. I just added the picture of Sarah trying to burn down a campground. What is ironic is the sweatshirt she is wearing says "Alcatraz Insane Asylum"