Wow. How does a parent tell a child how very proud she is of her and not sound just like another ... well, proud parent?
Melody is 21 years old today. She is so special and I love her so very much. Melody is truly her own person. She has characteristics of both parents (though I think she looks (and often behaves!) more like me). She challenges herself at every turn to do the right thing, to stretch herself, to better herself. She has risen to the challenge every single time. She is our middle child and has alternately enjoyed and hated that fact.
In her own words:
I'm a Senior at the University of South Florida. I'm majoring in anthropology, which is quite a change from my previous major which was Secondary Math Education.
I love reading, chess, making jewelry, and attending SCA events (Society for Creative Anachronism). If I have the time this semester between school and work I will be joining fighter practice every Sunday to learn the not-so-gentle art of sword fighting. I also love to roleplay and have been known to join in a game of Dungeons and Dragons every now and again.
Now, how can you NOT just love that? The woman loves life. In that regard, she could not be more MY daughter! :)
For her 21st birthday, I gave her this (this is something that neither of her parents would do; I told you she is her own person). And, as much as I love you, Honey, the next game of chess we play -- you're going DOWN!
HAPPY 21st BIRTHDAY, MELODY!!!!
