little bitty girl

Dearest Marie,

No special box for you today as I am notoriously bad at sending your birthday boxes off on time. I like to think that you enjoy the lingering of the "joy" or at least that's the idea I've always managed to sell you on. But as ever, you've accepted my delays with absolute grace. This is supposedly a "big" birthday for you so I thought you would have to make do with a letter until your box arrives.

I am still so profoundly amazed that we've known each other for so very long and yet have only really, really connected in the past three years. I cannot imagine a life without you in it. Other than Stefan, you are the only other person who truly, truly knows me - without my skin, without any reservations, or walls of social decorum. And I find it amazing that you find me to be a good enough human being to be the godmother to your child. I am still completely overwhelmed by such a wonderful gift.

Because, here's the thing. I am not without thought that I have many failings in my life. I am too passionate about silly things, hot headed and stubborn but somehow you find it all ok. Not just ok, but you actually like that about me. I like to think that you are this sister/partner/friend that I have never truly had. Until now. I also like to think that we are two sides of the same coin. But the truth is, I hope/think/pray that I can even reflect a very small part of you.

I have to tell you that I think that you are one of the most amazing people I have ever met in my life. You are so completely giving and kind, to all your family members and friends. Even when you think you're being a bitch, you are so ultimately kind. I spend most of my time in the industry being told by so many people on so many different levels how much they admire you. You being my friend, makes my cache as a human being so much more valuable. And the same goes for me. Anyone with the "Mree" stamp of approval is "good peoples" to me.

You always make me feel when things seem bleak that there is always a rainbow after the rain. You're an incredible human being. I always hope that your goodness will rub off on me one day. And one day, you know... it will. Until then, this is a note to you, my dearest friend.

Happy, happy birthday. I love you.