Usually on this, the third Saturday of June, I would already be eating fried clams and slathering my scantily clad self in makeup for The Coney Island Mermaid Parade. This year we're taking a different path. Though, like the first year we marched, the parade lands on Alita's actual birthday she asked if we could forgo it in favor of the Relay for Life. She wanted to honor a friend whose cancer had killed him by participating and we couldn't do both. So instead of getting sunburned and silly in sparkles she'll be walking her portion of the relay and then we'll meet for sushi. I've just baked the cupcakes and I'll do some minimal decorating. It'll be easier to transport them since they don't have to be carried through the parade as well. Tonight at dinner I can meet one of her friends, hear about the relay, and watch her blow out her candles a 13th time.
Am I disappointed to miss the parade? Well, a tiny bit. The thing is, though, when someone wants to do something honorable and selfless like this it sweeps the disappointment to the side. I am always proud to know this kid but today I'm feeling even a little bit luckier. She continues to be a kind, thoughtful, strong person. I think that's awesome. I hope I can be as good a human as she is.
Happy 13th birthday you wonderful young lady! I can't wait to celebrate with you tonight.
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Proof positive that this kid is going on the road to being one of the women we admire and adore. Happy Birthday sweet girl! I cannot believe it's been that many years since she showed up.
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