Happy Birthday Michelle, Shellie,Shell, Shellie and all the other names you go and have gone by over the years—24 “and so much more” as Niel Young sings. I want you to know how much I have appreciated having you a part of my life.. I am sorry we did not have more time together but there were so many variables we could not control. Bad marriages, bad cars,poverty, great distances and who knows what else. But we did have good times and experiences. A red Christmas dress, Kid Day and so many miracles it's difficult to count them all. Concerts and school plays trips to the Dr's office and braces. You were always the little mother helping me keep eyes on the brothers during Kid Day, keeping informed who needs what and what the others might need for birthdays and Christmas. Always quiet as a mouse. I could always count on you for a good report at parent teacher conference. Every teacher wished they had a class full of you.

I apologize for scaring you so bad when we drove through the mountains in the red caddy, getting stuck in the snow again in the red caddy—that truly was a miracle. I also apologize for pulling your arm from it socket when you were just two. I was trying to lift you from the floor in my lap—difficult to do in a wheelchair with limited hand function. I apologize for not getting you the electric piano you wanted a few years back and not being there for your wedding.

I have always been truly amazed at how smart you are. I envoy the way you read, whole books in a day, knowing just the right thing to say at just the right time. I love that you love acting and singing and you have such great self esteem. You are my American Idol. If you tried out I do not doubt you would be on your way to L.A. I have always been amazed at how much you are like me, just the way you are. I see myself in you so many ways except you are better then my version ever was. I appreciate that. You have always been the piece keeper, always pulling Thing one and Thing Two a part. Many times you were the only one who could diffuse Thing Two. You are gifted in so many things and you have always wisely used your gifts. You are blessed with genuine friends—or rather, you took great care in surrounding yourself with solid, sturdy people who care for you with the intensity with which you care for them.

I am proud of the transition you have made from adolescence to young adulthood. Again, you seem to have effortlessly made the right choices in a mate, work and life. I have also appreciated the way you have taken care of your mother. You are indeed a great magician. Few could have done what you have and you continue to be the great mediator. Shellie, you have taken care of yourself, by yourself so much of the time. You are the one I worry about least. You are my treasure. I quietly think of you and smile. I wish you a wonderful year. Good luck with your new job—which ever one you choose. Please do not hesitate in calling on me if there is anything I can do to assist you in your transition. 24 and so much more.. Love Dad.