25 + 1

Melissa was a problem right from the start. She caused her mom to be in labor for untold hours, and messed up hunting plans at the beginning and in future years so her dad wouldn't be out of town for birthday parties. She was never a very good student as her priorities were not related to educational pursuits, and she had her share of parental discipline for transgressions that won't be repeated here.

Melissa is my daughter and she turned 25 yesterday. Much like she was, I'm a procrastinator and should have written this yesterday, but at least I emailed her so she knows I didn't forget. For those of you that wonder why I didn't call her, long time readers of this blog will recall that I don't like talking on the phone for some specific reasons, and Melissa is cool with that I believe.

She had her share of jobs before finding what I think is her niche. She got lucky when she landed her current position in a large national company, and from the sounds of it, she is moving up the corporate ladder though hard work, long hours, and determination. She married a nice guy who also works long hours and is frequently out of town at job sites, but I think they are doing pretty well with their circumstances. Like most young couples, they dream of buying a house, but trying to get down payment money together is taking longer than they want. She had to endure the divorce of her parents and my cancer experience. Some bad stuff came her way, but she somehow managed to get past the bad exeriences and I think things are now starting to go her way.

Looking back at how things are going for her, I see a lot of parallels between her and me. I wasn't a good student, got into my share of trouble, got lucky and got a good job, and now I'm living happily ever after. Almost sounds like a fairy tale come true, with the big difference the majority of my fairy tale is behind me while hers is hopefully in front of her.

My birthday wish for her is health, happiness, and prosperity both now and in the future. If she is as lucky as her old man, she has a good shot at all three. Happy belated birthday blog wishes Melissa. I'm proud of you!