godmothers

Madam S,

You are one lucky girl. I chose my two best friends from childhood to be your godmothers. They are already godmother to two of your siblings - but since they are THAT special I needed them once more. I love them dearly. I hope you do to.

From L to R: Johanna Guerin Petersen, Calyn Kinney Reinhart and moi. On the eve of my 30th bday.


Here are the letters they each wrote to you after you were born:

May 28, 2012

My Dearest Madam S.,

From the moment you were born, I was absolutely in love with you. With your immediate peaceful demeanor, obvious courage and absolutely stunning auburn hair, I just knew I would be wrapped around that tiny little finger of yours.

You barely cried out, and as I looked around the room and observed the few faces that were blessed to experience such a magical moment, each pair of eyes lit up in bewilderment at the magical addition that had just joined our lives.

I am honored to be a part of your life, and even more honored to be your co-godmother, Madam S. At even just a few weeks old, I just know you have an unbelievable lifetime ahead of you of flourishing, prospering and spreading enormous amount of joy to all whose lives you touch.

The particulars of my job as a godparent are dote on you with affection and toys, indulge you with sweets, overlook the crayon on the wall, encourage finger-painting, loud singing, and staying up past bedtime, and of course, create the obligatory godmother-created embarrassing moments.
Yet, in more traditional terms, my duties also include the support and cultivation of your well-being. In light of that, I should probably offer you some actual insight. My first words of advice are not my own, but rather I’d like to share with you my favorite simple guide to happiness—The Joy of Creating by L. Ron Hubbard.

THE JOY OF CREATING

Force yourself to smile and you’ll soon stop frowning.

Force yourself to laugh and you’ll soon find
something to laugh about.

Wax enthusiastic and you’ll very soon feel so.

A being causes his own feelings.

The greatest joy there is in life is creating.

Splurge on it!

-L. Ron Hubbard

I will remind you of this guide, as needed, throughout your life as we share many play dates, recitals, manicures, late night talks, laughs and tears, my dear.

I accept the task as your godmother with open arms. I hope to be a fun, compassionate, guiding light in your life, as you are already are in mine.

Yours truly,

Calyn

Dear Savannah,

I have known your mommy for a very long time.  We used to play together when we were babies, little girls, then we grew up as teenagers together and now we have our own families and kids. I can honestly say that we have an unconditional love for one another that childhood friends so often have.  So, when your mommy asked me if I would be one of your godmothers it meant so much to me that she and your dad would give me an opportunity to be a part of your life in this way.  When I met you for the first time a few weeks ago, I just fell for you immediately.  Although I haven't been able to spend much time with you since you arrived I have admired you from afar and like everyone else around you I just can't get enough!  With that fiery red hair, sweet smile and calmness about you how could anyone resist?!  

So-- as one of your godmothers, there are a few things that I want you to know- 

-I will always be your friend.

-I love you unconditionally.

-You can come to me for anything.

-I will always be willing to help you if you need it.

And most importantly, I will always be there if and when you feel like you need a pretty new dress! 

Savannah- I'm very excited to get to know you and be your friend!

Love,

Johanna