19 October 2010
My Dearest Cambria,
Happy, happy birthday! One year ago today you came into this world surrounded by people who loved you. We had yet to see your beautiful face or hear your voice, but we all loved you. Your Mommy and Daddy, Grace and me. How lucky we were to be there to welcome you. After you were born, as the nurse was cleaning you up, I talked to you and told you all the fun things we were going to do together; sing and read and color. We have a lot to look forward to!
Today I write the first letter to you. On each birthday I will write another so that someday you will have a collection of letters to you, from me. I hope that they will serve to connect us during this life, and after I am gone. It is important to me that you know that my love for you will never, ever end. No matter what.
Did you know that your name is also the name of a city in California? It is beautiful, magical place and I hope that you will be able to go there one day. It sits on the central coast with the Pacific Ocean crashing on its rocky shores and pine covered mountains at its back. Stones called Moonstones wash up on the beach and after they are polished they have a blue light inside. A tiny piece of the water it came from still shining from within. I will make sure you have one. I think the Moonstone ought to be your special stone. Blue like your eyes.
Cambria, California is where I fell in love with your Papa Tom. I think you already know how special he is. He has never had any little children in his life so you are his first! He is smart and kind and will be there for you always. From Papa Tom you will learn what it is to be patient and faithful and true. If he says it, you can believe it. That is a rare thing in this world. He is a gift to all of us.
During this past year I have watched you grow and learn and begin to become a very unique and joyful little person. Everything you do delights me. The way you tuck your bottom lip in when you are thinking; how you use that little pointer finger to touch and discover; your funny little baby sense of humor. Such joy. Thank you for that.
So, as you move from year one toward the excitement of year two I wish you a safe and gentle journey. May your lessons be learned easily and may you always face life with a sense of wonder. Walk in peace, little Cambria, always walk in peace. Nameste (your spirit and my spirit are one).
Love always,
Gram