Happy Birthday Aunt Linda

I was named after my father's sister. Growing up, I never really wondered why my parents named me after my Aunt Linda. All I cared about was that it made me special.
Christmas, I didn't sit around wondering what Santa was going to bring me, I was more excited to receive that warm hug and kiss from my Aunt Linda as I would crawl up on her lap and listen to her giggle while I would unwrap her present. This Christmas Eve, I was driving to my family's Christmas celebration as a memory came to me of the time my Aunt Linda gave me my first typewriter. It was red with white keys. I was so excited and happy to receive such a precious gift. I spent days and months typing away on that typewriter, secretly knowing that I was a great writer, writing novels that everyone would enjoy reading over and over again. I shared this memory with my Aunt Linda as tears filled my eyes as I realized that her belief in me, even as a young child, created who I am today. I thought it was appropriate to start the new year, writing about her.
My Aunt Linda is someone you would never match with another. She is bubbly and even though I'm sure she has had many heartaches in her life, she does not carry them with her. She is kind and compassionate with a heart that is full and open. She is beautiful and full of grace. Rarely have I've seen her without her great smile. I can't help but to giggle along with her as she tells her funny stories and jokes. Every time she sees me, her eyes and face lights up as she calls me her Little Linda. It doesn't matter how old I become, my heart melts every time.
When my son was born severely ill, I received a letter in the mail from my Aunt Linda. She spoke of angels and miracles and it was exactly what I needed to hear. That letter had a permanent spot in the front pocket of my overnight bag. Many times I found myself pulling that letter out and reading it while I was alone in my baby's hospital room. It always gave me the strength to keep going and to keep believing that things would get better.
During our family Christmas dinner, my aunt was telling a story about my Aunt Linda. As she talked, I thought I would've done the same exact thing my Aunt Linda did. I mentioned to my aunt that I thought I was a lot like my Aunt Linda. She smiled and agreed. I was instantly filled with excitement to think that not only did I share her name, but I was blessed to be have a little of her personality also. My childhood dream of growing up to be just like my Aunt Linda had come true.
A few years ago, I asked my father why he named me after his sister. He told me that he and my mother had no idea what to name me. I was born the day after my aunt's birthday and she was at the house to celebrate it when my mom went into labor. It's not a warm and fuzzy story, but I love it for the fact that I was named after her by chance, which makes my whole story even more special.
So happy birthday, Aunt Linda. May today be a very special day for you filled with all the giggles and love that you deserve. Thank you for all you are and all you do. I honor the gift I was given, carrying on your name with as much love and happiness that you possess. I love you!