Dear Madison,
Six years old! I can't believe it. Happy Birthday!
It seems just like yesterday that you showed up in my life. On your second night at home from the hospital, I remember holding you. We were the only two awake. The room was dark, and you were looking at me with those big blue eyes. You weren't crying. Just looking. I knew then we'd always be buddies.
So much has changed though.
When I was at home a couple of weeks ago, you crawled up in my lap. Those long arms and legs seemed to go everywhere. But I got that same look. And for a brief moment, it didn't seem like much had changed. You're still my buddy.
I love that in your room you have just as many trucks, trailers and horses as you have dolls. And that one minute you're wearing a dress and the next you're wearing jeans and boots. Keep it that way. Be your own person. Mix it up. Always.
You are so brave now.
At the rodeo, I watched you, this little girl on that big horse, run the barrels. You weren't the fastest contestant that night, but you had all the confidence in the world. You were patient. And one day, you'll win. I know it.
Keep that confidence. That determination.
On the Sea Doo, you wanted to go faster. You wanted to find the biggest waves from the boats. We rode that inner tube together, and the whole time I was the one who was scared. Scared that you would get hurt. Or that you wouldn't like it. Or that you would cry. But you held on tighter and enjoyed sliding across the wake more than anyone.
When I was pulling you, I loved getting the thumbs up from you to go faster. And from the look on your face, you liked it when you got "thrown off." We all do, really. And when we got back to the dock, you walked right up to the second floor and took the big leap into that deep water.
Always take the leap.
Your trademark expression is "KISSES!" You never want anyone to leave without kisses.
Today, I'm going to borrow it from you.
I say Happy Birthday and "KISSES!"
And I love you.
Uncle Josh