Baker's Dozen

Thirteen is a baker’s dozen, Or a scary Friday night. Missing in an elevator, Or a 12-year-old’s delight. Rite of passage from a tweener, Cooler in so many ways. Does it bring a new demeanor? That’s for others to appraise. An impish grin and razor wit Make it hard to guess the years. Daddy’s girl still loves to snuggle; Raging, crying, full of tears. Thirteen is an awkward age, yes, Not a child, but not yet grown. A scant few years, she’ll spring the cage; My oh my, the years have flown! So here is our birthday prayer: May your year abound in glee. Careful to avoid the pitfalls; led by Christ, our precious Ree. ---------- (a birthday card inscription on the occasion of Ree’s 13th birthday, so, a few years ago)