I have never, in all my twenty years, been on a plane by myself.

I know that isn't much time, but my mother had been on one by herself at fourteen and, well I just didn't have the opportunity to do it on my own, not really. And so, now I find myself with Jetblue ticket for a direct flight to Tennessee this Tuesday, to come see you, my dear.

I am petrified, terrified, horrified, and any other long word with "ied" in it that explains my panic, but it is all worth it to see you.

When I get scanned through to the bone and checked, I will be thinking about your strange baby noises, which your father has been sending to me so I can smile.

When i quickly put my shoes back on and rush to my gate, I will be thinking about how you move your arms around like a little opera singer and can't stop moving, and how you might one day be on olympic champion.

When I step onto the plane and find my seat, hoping beyond hope that I don't sit next to anyone that will be annoying or worse, creepy, I will be thinking of your sweet little smile, which you have just learned to use with purpose. And, oh my girl you have so much purpose.

Defying the laws of the world just to be here, to prove that you are supposed to be. I am coming, I will be there soon, just as soon as I can.

I love you! And, if you know how to yet, you are a very advanced little baby, please say a prayer for your dear aunt who loves you but can't stand planes and would rather not go down on one.

I love you my dear, though you may be confused if I really do since when you first see me I will probably be crying. But, be assured, those will be tears of happiness, and probably more than just slight relief.

Love, your Aunt Mary

P.S. I'm bringing you a book because of course I am.