{March 27, 2011}

My baby girl, who would kill me if I called her that in public, turned 12 today. She wasn't thrilled about me taking this picture, and it took a bit to get her to pose even the tiniest amount, yet she knows I'll keep bothering her until she lets me take one. I know it's cliche, but it feels like just yesterday that I was holding her in my arms, a full five weeks premature, relieved beyond belief that she was completely healthy. Apparently she knew she was ready to come out and despite everyone else's concerns, Megan knew she would be fine. That fearlessness has not ceased--which is both good and bad--as she's grown older. She loves skateboarding, learned to snowboard last year, and is always on the go. While she's shy around new people it doesn't take long for her to warm up and make an instant friend. Megan has a great sense of humor, always making people laugh. She has a true heart of gold and will do anything for anyone. I am always impressed at her nurturing side, her quick wit, her ability and willingness to face challenges head on, and what a great person she is. Although I love watching her turn from a little girl in to a young woman, there's forever this part of me that wishes I could freeze time, if even for a moment, just so that I have even more time with her here. Happy Birthday, Megan...I am so very proud of you and love you more than you'll ever know!

On to the pic...{click to view full size}