November 3

This girl of mine turned 14 today. Fourteen! We celebrated the big occasion with our customary photos, lunch (with a birthday treat), a little light shopping (and a double chocolaty chip frappuccino), dinner (with yet another birthday treat and a song), presents, and cake.

I could say a million things about Abby, but it all boils down to this: though she can be your archetypal teenager at times and she knows how to get under my skin, she's truly a great daughter and a great person. Having her in my life is nothing but an enormous blessing, and I'm thankful for every second we have together.

Happy birthday, Abby!