Dear Eleanor,

I have given my wishes for you a lot of thought. I watched and played with you while I visited you a few weeks back. There were times spent rocking in a chair and reading while I hugged you. I admire your intelligence and your free spirit. I know it gets you into trouble at times. With time you'll learn to harness it and that spirit will become one of your greatest assets. Never lose it.

I've missed you and your sister so much since I've come home. I've tried to convince Grandpa that we should move to the St. Louis area. Still working on that.

When I asked what you wanted to do when you got older, you giggled and said, "A big girl." At three years old, I'm sure that's a valid wish. I'll continue to ask that question as you get older.

For now, I'm going to list my wishes for you. I'm sure they'll change as I and you age.

If I had only four wishes, I'd give you:

* the confidence to know how unique you are

* the strength to always be true to your dreams

* the love to never feel alone

and

* to never forget the power of prayer


My Lesson Learned:
Always be true to yourself.