Saying Thank You

Binky Sue w/members of Lions Club, originally uploaded by torri_g.

Last night was Binky Sue's night to meet and say thank you to the local Lions Club for the scholarship. Binky Sue's nerves got the better of her as she stood to talk about herself, future plans, and what went into her decisions for her future. In true Binky Sue form she made a room full of people tear up. She may have been nervous, and she may have been to the point of talking 100 words a second, but the message that she delivered touch every one of the people in that room last night. A very simple don't tell me I can not achieve things, because I can and I will. Don't think that just because I am a child with special needs, it means that I'm not smart enough, because I am. I may have to work harder, and find different ways to understand, but if you believe in me I can do anything.
There were two retired teachers in the group last night and based on things we heard from everyone after the meeting they are very pleased with their choice of recipient of the award this year. Watching them all during her speech we could see them feel her joy, excitement, and her sadness. Basically it was one heck of night. However Binky Sue's favorite part of the night was receiving a tiny little statue of a lion with the lions club emblem on it. It now gives her saying "I'm a ferwosias (ferocious) Lion!" real meaning to her. Even to the point of last night when we got home showing it off and saying "See I told you I was Lion!" Indeed you are Binky Sue and Mom, Dad, and lots of other people are very proud of you.

I hope that everyone is enjoying a good week and that it isn't flying by to quickly.

Eighteen Today!

Proof 11, originally uploaded by torri_g.

I have spent a good amount of time this weekend thinking about Binky Sue turning 18, and even with doing that I still don't know just what to say other than WOW! The feeling of not really knowing just where the last 17 years went is amazing. I'm wishing that I could find the ability to type something great here this morning, but I doubt that I'm going to find that here today. My first baby girl is eighteen, and even though she swore she wasn't ready, I know in my heart that she is.

Binky Sue I have watched you grow from a very happy baby to a beautiful (most of the time) happy young woman. Your drive and determination to achieve any goal you set for yourself, blows me away. I know for you the months counting down to this day and graduation in two months have had you fearful of the "what do I do next". But I have no doubt that you will find just what path it is that you want to put your once so tiny feet upon. Remember that you have the job of breaking the ground with all of the "Firsts" for Mommy, and while there is no end to being a Mommy there is a time we have to step aside and let wings be spread to start your own flight through life. Today is one of those major mile stones with another one steam rolling up upon us both.(Enough time to think about that one later though) For today enjoy a wonderful birthday and remember that Mommy is old now and might not be able to keep up with you at the mall. : )
I love you much my Binky Sue and hope that today is all that you want it to be!