Dear Robin,
Happy Birthday, dear friend. It's hard to believe that we are thirty three. It's hard to believe that I have known you for almost 20 years.
I often joke that you are the hippie yin to my yuppie yang, but it is tongue in cheek since you are many more things than just a hippie and I am more of a batshit scattered nut than a yuppie, but it's a nicer stereotype, I suppose. Like many, our friendship has gone through cycles along with our lives. I am so happy that you are a regular part of my life, even though you are two thousand miles away.
From two girls with identical Bic Green Pen handwriting to two women with very different lives, here we are, still with eerily similar handwriting.
I am so proud of you and everything you have accomplished. You are an amazing mother, sister, friend, etc. You are still one of the most gifted writers I know. Also, a mighty fine photographer.
When your father passed, I cannot describe the shock that ran through me. I remember getting your update emails and I sobbed as I read them. Even though he is no longer with us, I know how proud he would be of his daughter. You are accomplishing so much and impacting so many people who cross your path. The world is better for having you in it, with your advocacy, dedication, intelligence, sharp wit and keen knowledge of young adult fiction.
Wishing you all the best on your birthday!
Love,
Danielle
PS - non Robin readers - Robin and I are working on a special online project to give you a taste of both of our worlds. Coming soon. Promise...
Look at you, making me cry on my birthday. If you were here I would make a motion to hug you before backing away awkwardly. And then maybe I would give you one of my Sour Patch Kids.
Posted by: Robin Elton | October 08, 2009 at 07:50 AM
Great post! It almost made ME cry.
Posted by: Stef | October 08, 2009 at 02:30 PM