Today is my daughter, Christin’s 24th birthday. It is a very special day because it represents the culmination of 7 1/2 months of staying in bed and 24 years hence! Two early events should perhaps have been taken more seriously as a harbinger of things to come: Firstly, on this day 24 years ago, Christin attempted to enter this world in a position tantamount to a 90 degree angle – that is, for all you novices, called “frank breech” (heiney down) and, well, let’s just say, that doesn’t work very well. Second, upon visiting the pediatrician for one of her very early follow-up visits, the Dr. commented to me, ” You have a very willful child here”. I was profoundly taken aback and somewhat wounded at the time, yet that Dr. happened to be precisely on target.
Yesterday, we had a good chuckle about these two little stories and laughed together about how she arrived here raring to go! Wow, and who did I get? Someone who approaches everything she wants to do with extreme vigor. She’s feisty, independent and crazily filled with energy to “do”. While, this personality type has its downsides, too, I love watching her push and grow herself. She’s just filled with a spirit I love to love (well, on most days). I got a daughter, of whom, I could not be more proud.
Anyway, who can account for the fact that 24 years with Christin have zoomed by so quickly? It is such a bittersweet feeling as I sit here today. She’s now back to her love and passion for sports – albeit temporarily, on the varsity coaching staff for Lacrosse at her high school alma mater. Running and hitting things and people with a stick has always made her happiest – and showing her fierceness and competitive energy.
I was a little surprised when she asked me to bake something for her team’s practice today – other than the scone thing, she’s not a big sweets eater. She asked for Ina Garten’s Coconut Cupcakes – good choice! And so, this morning at 6:45, I was in the kitchen baking these up.
My friend, Roseann Tully is sending me her recipe for Coconut Lime Cake and I will make this for her as well.
What I just wanted to say today is that, baking is a labor of love for me, just as it was for my Mom. I am so happy I have this passion because I can indulge those I love with the fruits of what I love to do. What better vocation could there be, especially on a day like today. I love baking and cooking for you anytime, Christin!
So, Happy 24th Birthday to you, Christin! You are a wonderful daughter, and I love you so very much! Wishing you many more (like 100) years of Coconut Cupcakes and laughs for us together! May all your dreams come true – and all I can say to you is, “go for it”!
