Ode to Erin

Everyone ought to have an Erin in their family. Over the years, I've observed things in common with girls named Erin, and most of them fit mine. They are outspoken. They stand up for the underdog and don't care what people think of them for being friends with such. They question. They get what they want; usually by wearing down the opposition (i.e. parents!) They are loving and fiercely protective of those they love. They are not easily led, but are loyal to those they follow.

Dana was 2 yrs. and 8 months old when Erin was born. I think that is the perfect age, for they have been best sisters all their lives. Other than Gregg, Dana is the one person I don't think Erin could live without, which makes me so happy. Erin loves her father fiercely and has always wanted just to make him proud. And me? I think Erin thinks I'm kinda easy; she's always known how to persuade me, to make me laugh when I wanted to be SO mad at her I could scream (and did, a few times!) and can say "MOM!" in more than 100 ways - well, maybe not.

We tease Erin a lot, because she's given us so many wonderful memories to use at her expense, but the truth is, she is the perfect daughter. There is not one thing about her I would change for all the money in the world. There's not another mom in the world with a daughter like mine, and I thank God for her every moment of my life.

Happy Birthday, Erin Elaine LaMore Johnson September 24, 1982