HAPPY BIRTHDAY MELODY JOY

Twenty seven years ago today my daughter Melody Joy was born and truthfully as dramatic as it might sound, my life has never been the same.  I was one of those women who had always longed for a daughter, and had many plans in my heart and head of how it might be should I ever be so fortunate. Some of those plans just didn't happen, but truthfully, I wouldn't change a single minute of what was to be.  After 3 sons I was soo ready for lots of pink, dance classes and tutu's, ribbons, curls, dresses, and yes maybe even some occasional "girl" drama, haha.  What I got was a girl who HATED the color pink, anything resembling a dress, shopping, anything sparkly and fancy, and even combing her hair let alone ribbons and curls.  She was all about sports, messy pony tails, jeans and tee shirts and spent her time hanging out with almost exclusively boys until she was almost 10 years old.  Girls play such silly games she told me with disgust...sigh.  Yes, she was a tomboy through and through.  Somewhere midway through high school that all finally changed and she discovered that clothes, purses, make-up and the like might not be quite so bad after all.  Though truthfully, she still hated shopping, haha.  She and I had (and still have to this day) a relationship that I think many mother's might envy.  She confided in me, trusted my opinion (most of the time!) and we spent hours upon hours talking and enjoying one another's company.  I don't think either one of us saw her young married years living a thousand miles apart from each other, and honestly it is not without it's challenges.  But I love the independent, strong woman she has become, and admire the way she cares for her young babies and husband.  She achieved her goal of becoming a teacher and has plans to get her masters eventually.  How I love this girl and thank God for her today and everyday.  HAPPY BIRTHDAY my sweet girl, and may the Lord bless you and keep you and make His face to shine upon you now and for years and years to come.  Loving you always and forever!  Mom

MEL AND I ON HER WEDDING DAY 5 YEARS AGO!

SOO HAPPY

MEL AND HER HUSBAND MIKE

HER LITTLE FAMILY SHORTLY AFTER LUKE WAS BORN