A Birthday Tale From A Midwinter Night

They are filler flowers, they said of carnations. But to me, they are pretty as pretty can be. If we bunched them all together, they become these giant pom-pom bouquets that fill the room with bursts of lightness! They are boo-tiful, Mommy! my two-year-old had said about my floral arrangements.


My dearest daughter, to me, you are as pretty as these blossoms put together. And don't you ever forget that. Filler flower or not.

And you are as sweet as these Belgian chocolates on offer...

...for the wee one dressed up in pretty little checkers, dots, and ruffles. Come out from your hiding place, little one. Everyone's waiting!

But before she came out to the world, her daddy had stopped to ask, Giada, how old are you?

I'm three, she had answered. Daddy shook his head, no, no, you're not three...you're two.

Don't be in such a rush to grow up, baby girl. Just enjoy your birthday party tonight, for there will be plenty of time for growing up later on.

Then suddenly, a parade of chocolate and vanilla cupcakes! Happy Birthday to you, we had all sung. Cupcakes always seem to hit the right note.


Why don't we open gifts now? I see which one grabbed your attention. Already a little fashionista, aren't you?

Aside from the blossoms and chocolates and cupcakes and candles tonight, there was one special gift from Rebecca, the (fairy) godmother - a painstakingly hand-knitted cashmere ballerina wrap top. I love it, Mommy! I'm happy, she had whispered into my ear.

Me, too. Me, too.