I wish I could embed the song “September” by Earth, Wind and Fire.  I always loved it and then one day realized it was about my daughter.  ”do you remember/21st night of September” A song of celebration for the day my sweet girl was born. Except she was born in the morning, but close enough.

My beautiful, smart, loving, no nonsense daughter who changed my life forever.  I am so, so lucky and blessed and honored to have my daughter.

The moment they pulled her out of me ( c-section due to frank breech) I heard her screaming and I saw her wriggling body as I lay flat on my back.  My first thought?  Terrified.  I was afraid of her.

2nd thought:  She is not me, she is not Mark, she is her own, strong person seperate from us.  Uh, oh, this wasn’t going to be like my little baby dolls. But, Vivien and I have worked it out and will continue to work it out for the rest of our lives.

Now, she has just started Kindergarten as the youngest in her class and soccer, and a loving big sister.  She is strong and her own person and also my baby doll.

I love you Vivien.  I can’t thank you enough for coming to be with us. Happy Birthday!