My Dearest Sofia,

Happy Birthday 8-year old girl.  I still remember so clearly the day you were born; it was one of the most extraordinary moments of my life.  I am missing you terribly these days and hope you know how much I love and adore you.  I am currently across the Atlantic Ocean, but am sending you big birthday hugs across the sky.

I wanted to introduce you to my friend Penelope.  That’s her in the photo above…making the silly face.  I had to share this with you because everytime I think of Penelope, I think of how often she refuses to cooperate when a camera is pointed at her, how when I took this particular photo I thought to myself, "This will be a good one!" only to see the image on my screen afterward and discover Penelope had surreptitiously decided to be very, very silly.

Naturally, this reminded me of you immediately.

I look at these two photos, as well as other assorted images that provide proof of the fact that you and Penelope clearly received extra goofy genes, and I believe you are both passionately determined to let your goofy selves run free.

And let me tell you both – you won’t find a bigger cheerleader for that than yours truly.  You’re talking to a grown woman who owns a tutu and had oodles of fun at a place called Glitter Camp not very long ago.  Being silly is a hobby of mine, and I love that the two of you choose the camera as one of the places you consistently rebel against expectations and norms.

Sofia, you are a bright, creative, beautiful soul and I love seeing this connection between you and another woman who inspires me beyond belief time and time again.  I look at you and think of how much more you will grow, create, be silly, inspire and continue to amaze me and everyone around you.  You will grow up to be an extraordinary presence in this world, just like Penelope is.  And although the two of you may never meet, know that I hold a special connection just for the two of you in my heart.  You, my very best buddy, and Penelope, the girl who sits on the moon and shines a light for all of us.

Happy Birthday.  I love you…Christine

P.S.  I love you too Penelope.