TO MY DARLING SON, ETHAN: FROM THE VERY FIRST MOMENT....

From the moment I knew you were coming, I held my breath and said a prayer that your nine-month journey would be traveled without incident, surrounded by everything you needed, including the incredible love Dad and I were feeling at this chance to finally bring a new life into our world.  I loved you the minute I heard your heartbeat, I loved you more the minute you were born. Then I saw your face and I fell in love some more. You were only a minute old, but I knew I would die for you and to this day I still would.

From that day forward you have given Dad and me a laugh a minute, our hearts bursting with love through all your growing up years, 'kvelling' at all your accomplishments (and there were many) and loving the compassionate, kind and caring human being you were becoming.

Our life with you during your first 18 years was exceptionally happy.  You made parenting easy as we watched you grow from such a cute little boy with a wonderful giggle and smile to a great teenager who did so well in school, not following the crowd but creating your own path.

You found your life's calling early and pursued it vigorously at Arizona State University. You have become one of the country's premier photographers and have received so many awards for your wonderful work.  Yours is not a job, it is the passion of your life.

Wishing you a wonderful birthday with many, many more years to enjoy your passion and find even more success in all you do.

We are so proud of the boy we knew.  We are so proud of the man you have become.  You are loved beyond measure.

A SHORT NOTE OF THANKS

Any day I get up on this side of the grass is a good day. But it's a great day today because it is my birthday and I've made it through another year. Even though the genes on my side of the family have not been generous in the "length of years" category, I plan on adding a lot more numbers to the one I reached today.

So, I say "Thank you" to my family and friends for all the blessings, good wishes, joy and happiness that have filled my life this last year. And, at this special time of introspection, "tsehuvah" and renewal through the High Holidays, I give thanks to the powers that be for all the goodness that has come my way.

And to all who read this blog, Jewish or not, l'shanah tova, may you all be blessed with a sweet and happy New Year.