HIPPO, BIRDIE TWO EWES - NANNIE

It seems like only yesterday that I held you in my arms for the first time, looking down at your tiny little face, fascinated by the miracle of you. You were so beautiful. I fell head over heels, madly in love with you at first sight, filled with wonder and awe and thankfulness at your presence in my life. Over the years, those feelings have never wavered. They've only intensified and deepened, grown and flourished; as I've had the privilege to watch you blossom from babe in arms to girl to woman right before my eyes.

Today, I'm overwhelmed, awash in memories, overcome with joy, and filled with pride like I've never known before. Proud of you for the obvious, but aware that today is really just symbolic of the moments, large and small, that led you here. I've seen you transform through sheer will and courage from a shy, unsure little girl into a strong, confident woman. I've witnessed you invest everything you have - blood, sweat and tears - into being the absolute best you can be, at everything you decided to do.

I've watched your thoughtful heart expand, never losing sight of the oh, so many people who have loved you, held their breath for you, and cheered you along the way. I've watched all of those hopes and dreams I held in my heart for you that day twenty-three years ago come true. And I've been honored as you've shared with me the hopes and dreams of your own.

I don't think it would be possible for me to be any prouder of you than I am today. You did it, baby. The world is yours for the taking, for all your hard work and struggle. Today is the first day of the rest of your life, your future is a blank page waiting for you to write your own story on it. And I can't wait to read it, as it unfolds one chapter at a time, a tale of a remarkable woman on the journey of her lifetime.

I feel like I should be filling this letter with words of advice, some sage wisdom full of guidance. But really, all I have to say is this: Follow your heart, chase your happiness. Above all else. Because of the woman that you've become, you will understand that this won't always be easy, and that there will be bumps in the road along the way. But I also believe you will know that pursuit of anything less isn't worthy of the trip.

I love you, from the bottom of my heart to the depth of my soul. Keep that in your heart forever, wherever you go, whatever you do, and know that this love is one true thing you always have to count on, yesterday, today and for all of your tomorrows.