Even as I write that title I feel a little guilty. Sophie surely counts as one so maybe, “Then There Were Three”. Lily arrived yesterday to celebrate her birthday weekend with her mom. I know I am lucky. It is not many young women who would want to hang out with their old mother on a birthday.

I am lucky to have raised a woman with a beautiful heart and the bravery of a soldier. She has convictions and morals that are strong enough that they drive her to avoid the easy road and just perpetually keep climbing. Lily is so beautiful and strong that sometimes it’s hard to see past the outside gorgeousness of her and recognize the wonder of her soul. She is powerfully loving and to be loved by someone like her is a blessing. Her friends would tell you that. She is smart, funny, and at times outrageous. I am so proud of the woman she has become.

Lily gives me hope. A hope that was rekindled by the outcome of the recent midterm elections. Maybe, just maybe, there is more good out there than bad. Maybe people want a world free from hate, bigotry, misogyny and fear. It is my birthday wish for Lily that she continues to grow, know love, and find her community. I may be boasting but I made world a better place 23 years ago just by bringing her into it.