My girleens are 18

This day 18 years ago, in an anaesthetised state of slumber my two girleens were lifted into this mad world. My diary reads from the night before How am I going to sleep without Gaviscon? the heartburn a gift from Virgil’s underworld. So I counted backwards from 10 and woke up with two beautiful daughters, one just ahead of the other by 2mins 30secs and yes, she does pull rank when befits. Nestled in amniotic comforts like two oysters in the one shell there was little room for manoeuvres. At 8lb10oz and 8lb2oz the midwives reckoned they were record weights for twins at the time. Their arrival brought such excitement and joy and still does today. They are closer than we will ever know. When they row there are no holds barred. So girls, stay close, stay connected. Your sister should be your closest confidante, your best friend, someone who will always have your back. Cleanse and moisturizer daily. Medb, you’re beautiful inside and out. Róisín, you’re beautiful inside and out. Be independent, be yourself. Remember your flaws and differences are what make you unique. Don’t worry, it’s like paying a debt you don’t owe (wish they were my words, they’re Mark Twain’s). Everything will be fine. Things have a way of working themselves out even in these crazy CoVid times. Don’t spare your ‘good’ clothes for special occasions. Wear them wherever, whenever. Wear red lipstick. I love the bones of you both. I’m so proud of the young women you have become. I admire your intelligence, kindness, sense of humour and determination, each of you expressing it in your individual ways. So on this your 18th my wishes for you are from the sagacious Bob Dylan
 
May God bless and keep you always
May your wishes all come true
May you always do for others
And let others do for you
May you build a ladder to the stars
And climb on every rung
May you stay forever young
Forever young, forever young
May you stay forever young.

May you grow up to be righteous
May you grow up to be true
May you always know the truth
And see the light surrounding you
May you always be courageous
Stand upright and be strong
May you stay forever young
Forever young, forever young
May you stay forever young.

May your hands always be busy
May your feet always be swift
May you have a strong foundation
When the winds of changes shift
May your heart always be joyful
And may your song always be sung
May you stay forever young