Nine years ago last Saturday

someone was born. And so there was a three-day ski trip that included lots of good friends, skiing with a coach, a cake, a load of cupcakes, a big pasta party, and a few presents.

But nine years ago there was this.

And later this.

Those are her first shoes.

Here she is reading up on a very important topic.

Getting outfitted for one of our favorite activities.

Looking like a penguin on some of her first skis.

Celebrating a birthday bowl of oatmeal.

Blowing out some candles at her birthday tea party.

Smiling like the Mona Lisa at a friend's wedding.

Sandwiched between two good friends.

In the suit that has given her the name The Pink Rocket.

Smiling at Christmas.

In San Francisco Opera's production of Macbeth.

And blowing out nine candles.

Happy birthday, baby. Words cannot express how much joy you have brought into my life. Out of all the crazy things I have done, having you was the best.