Happy Birthday from Ben:

Dear Sofia, 

Three of my favorite memories with you —

1. Winter breaks playing cards with you and the family - mostly that game Wizards that Mikey really likes. And I remember one of the first few times we met (gosh, over 15 years now): you didn’t really know what to think of me. You were very nice — I was your daughter’s new boyfriend — but it wasn’t until we played cards together with the family that you really opened up to me. Why? Because we both like to cheat! And that drove Mikey crazy. 

2. I remember you on Shosho and my wedding day. You were so beautiful and supportive. I’ll never forget you dancing like crazy and getting everyone in the right mood (including Shosho, with all her jitters). You insisted on the midnight chilaquiles and they were so delicious. 

3. Having you with us when Gabriel and Maggie were born was one of the most important things. When you brought Gabriel to hospital after Maggie was born and you’d given him lots of practice kissing babies so that when he showed up it was all he wanted to do. He could say “Maggie” and “Sister” and that was because of you.

You’re such an important part of our lives and, honestly, I can’t imagine life with you. You bring so much to me, Shosho and the kids. I hope you have the best birthday ever and can’t wait until we’re all together again.

Love - Ben xoxo