When I was 15 years old and approaching 16 (not nearly fast enough) my parents asked me what I wanted for my birthday. My choices were a party or a trip. I opted for the trip. My sister and I flew to San Francisco to see my Aunt and celebrate, my big day. It was an amazing time. It was also the first time my sister and I had traveled alone. We were to excited to be nervous and to innocent to think that we had a reason to be.
That was many moons ago and two weekends ago it was my cousin’s turn to celebrate “sweet 16″. She is currently attending boarding school in Toronto and the plan was for me to travel there. But somewhere along the line the plan changed and she came to New York instead. Now I have to mention something about my cousin…she loves to shop. I mean she really, really loves to shop. I don’t mean Old Navy shopping, I mean DKNY/Barney’s shopping. And while I have absolutely no interest in shopping (except for yarn) it was beyond fun walking around Manhattan with her, stopping by Sephora (where I bought the girlest, pinkest lip gloss I think I’ve ever owned), eating Cold Stone ice cream and spending way too much on lotion and bath gel at The Body Shop.
One major request she had during this birthday weekend was a walk through Central Park (which is 150 years old today, by the way). Thinking we would make it into the city another day our walk was brief. Too brief but we did get this great picture…
On the last night of her 15th year and after a wonderful, perfect day we (Chris, Alex and I toasted (as in a sip for her) with champagne. Then I tucked her into bed. The next morning there was a card waiting for her on the bed and chocolate chip pancakes in the kitchen…We then made a trip to the mall so she could pick out her birthday gift, then we went to dinner in the village (her choice and a perfect choice I might add) with my parents. Chris couldn’t be there which we were all upset about (he’s as crazy about her as I am) but we made up for it the next day, shopping (just a bit more) and then dinner that night.
From the time my aunt was carrying her to chatting with her last night on the phone I’ve adored her, my little woman…and I will all my days. I can only pray for a daughter as thoughtful, genuine and loving.
Love you honey,
Your second Marmie.
What a sweet post. I have 3 nieces and similar sentiments about each of them. Was going to swing by the store today. Are you in?
it’s 10:40pm and I just finished catching up on your blog (since this is the first time in about a week i had a chance to take a look). After reading the post about Alex, all I want to do is give you a great big hug…..but guess what…..you’re sleeping rather than knitting! I think i’ll just stand here a while and watch you and the boys (scooby and chance) sleep peacefully together. Happiness, is watching those you love, be at peace in this insane world……sleep peacefully sweetheart, for i know you are dreaming of jitterbug and wollmeise and sock yarns galore from the smile on your face.
What a special time for your and your cousin. She will cherish each and every moment!
It sounds like you made her day/trip very special. I remember spending time with my mum’s kid sister who was just a few years older than I, they are numbered among some of my favorite days. Alex is lucky to have you in her life.
Damn I wish I had had an aunt like you. How lovely that you have each other. Made me tear up.
Sometimes in life you meet people that change your life and they love you because they wnat to . They are not like a parent but close enough and you are one of those people. I love you with all my heart. P.S the sisterhood of the traveling pants 2 is comming out.