We are always striving to be our best selves.  Don't get me wrong, I think that is a worthwhile goal.  Stretching our limits can give us a fresh perspective on the gifts God has given us, and the reality of what we are capable of in this life.  But every once in awhile, this is the "me" I want to be.

Three-year-old Gabe.  The girl who is not self-conscious about her weight, anxious about finances, or wondering if people like her.  The girl who is blissfully unaware she will go through a divorce, or at 48, inexplicably develops type one diabetes.  I want to be the girl in this photo who is nutty, funny, and reveling in the moment.

Even though 47 years have passed since this was taken, I can feel that part of me simmering right below the surface.  I still make that face from time to time if I'm really excited about something.  Truth be told, I think that part of me would like a little more airtime.  

I think I'm going to give it to her.