Jordyn

Ten years ago, my life changed forever. Jordyn Paige Gottlieb, my Sunshine, my Tiny Best Friend, my Imaginary Granddaughter, was born. She grabbed my heart with both of her tiny little fists the moment I saw her, and she hasn't let go yet.

For ten years, she has been part of our family, considering our house her second home. It is.

Jordyn loves to help. Since she was small, she has helped Greg choose and plant the flowers in our backyard, chiding him the years he never got around to it. She helps Greg make pancakes and me make scrambled eggs. (She whacks 'em, I crack 'em.) She's been an eager student, letting me teach her to sew, crochet, knit (several times, in fact). She's developed a love of books and all the places you go to get them -- libraries and bookstores -- to match my own.

She's provided us with so much laughter. Tears, too, as life got difficult at times. Jordyn and her sister, Taylor, brought the magic of childhood back to our holidays, and made us eager for the days when our status as grandparents wouldn't just be imaginary.

And now that we have our own Charlie, Jordyn has a new status around here -- Big Sister -- and new ways to help.

I add "Assistant" to the list of titles I have for Jordyn. I look forward to picking her up from school and bringing her home to play with Charlie, who adores her.

My life is full. I'm busy and I'm tired. But I'm happy. Today is a day to celebrate...

Happy Birthday, Jordyn. I love you forever!