Just wanted to dedicate this post to my one and only niece, Joy, on her 1st birthday! 

Dearest Joy,

One year ago today, I just happened to be in California for work.  I was with my coworkers playing Bocce ball on the beach when I got the message you were born!  Little did you (or your Mom and Dad) know that I’d see you that evening and get to hold you in my arms.  You were a sweet, tiny, little soul with the cutest face I ever did see.  I held you close to my belly so Austin could feel his first girl cousin next to him.  🙂  I was able to get a glimpse of newborn life just 4 months before I was about to have my own.  I’ll always thank you for giving me that opportunity to learn how to swaddle, change a diaper, and hold a tiny little one.  I look forward to the future where I can help shape you into a beautiful, sweet, amazing, caring young woman that I know you one day will be.  And most of all, I sure hope you love shopping… because Auntie Sandy will be the first person you can reach out to when you need some retail therapy.  🙂  Can’t wait to see you again later this year!

Love,