Dear Madison, who ushered in my golden years fourteen years ago...
It seems with time my fragile, tiny bloom has blossomed beyond all hope.

I remember braiding your long hair and adding red ribbons to both of them
before your dad and I set off to watch you enter your first day of Kindergarten...

You were giddy with anticipation and anxious to run ahead to make new friends.
Your dad and I were in disbelief, and tearful, at your courage and confidence--

Third grade Christmas recital you sang your first solo, Silent Night...
My mom and dad had passed and I felt them smiling down on you, my sweet thing.

Sixth grade you moved and had to change schools. You were not smiling that day...
Joy and relief that afternoon as you walked out giggling with a new circle of friends!

Junior High--another move, to a new town. You were unphased, determined, confident.
Two years flew by as you became a leader with a kind heart who advocated for outsiders.

Today.

Oh, Madison Marie...
When I saw you in that dress
I couldn't catch my breath!

So smart.
So beautiful.
So special.

Congratulations my first grandchild...

As I've told you from the moment you were born,
"I love you to the moon and back again!"

May all your days be this filled with joy and God's amazing grace!