my strongest memory of her is an early morning ride home, her arm hanging out the window as she sang raucously but well and laughed at me out of the corner of her eye. i remember being deeply impressed by her wild hair and equally wary of her sarcasm. i remember my parents' admiration and respect for her, and my own. i remember that she was beautiful, and smart, and proud, and that life never seemed content to leave her alone. it may not be much, but i remember. i remember her.

happy birthday, dee. i hope you know how well your children do you justice.