Happy Birthday, Honey!

Honey Renee' Harvey. My first girl. I had to fight hard for the name Honey. Your name is in honor of big sisters. I used to call Kay Lynn "Honey" when I was little, and Brad's older sister was named Renee'. My Honey.

You were my first home birth. January 26, 1996. Sheri Daigle was the midwife who delivered you. We lived on Welcome Heights Road in Central. You were born at 7:34 in the morning. The sun was coming up. As always, I was so happy that you arrived.

A girl coming on the scene was a big deal. In a house of boys, it was so much fun to dress someone in pink. I must have changed your outfits 3 times a day. You, like Evan, were a thumb sucker. Loved it. You also liked to blow some really big spit bubbles in your car seat.

One of my favorite moments when you were about 1 was when I walked in the toy room and saw you breast feeding a Darth Vader doll. I knew that Vader missed out on the nurturing moments in his childhood. I also knew that I needed to get you a baby doll.

When you were 3, you wanted your ears pierced. Uncle Vance bought your earrings. (The biggest "diamonds" they had.) It was a big deal, and everyone was there at Claires to see it happen. Vance called you Lulu then, because you had told me one day that your name was, in fact, Lulu. And so it was...

I still have your first drawing that blew me away. It's the one with the people at the grave crying, an angel looking down on them, and a friendly family of gophers living busily right beneath the surface. You were 2, and your drawing ability was already better that mine. Since then, you have amazed so many people. I get so many comments and compliments on your art. You are gifted. It is incredible.

Your common sense and honesty are some of your best qualities. You are the voice of reason. Many times Miss Robin, Miss Diana, Miss April, and I have thoroughly enjoyed your no nonsense approach to life. It is classic.

I am a lucky Mom. Not only have I gotten to watch you so far, but I get to see what you will do with your gifts. You are beautiful, and yes, you got my hair. I am so sorry. But it honestly looks good on you. I can't wait to read your first published novel, fully illustrated by you. You are my Honey Bee. I love you with all my heart. I am right here.

Love, Mom