He Asked for the Key to her Heart: Lizard Turns 13

For Lizard's 13th birthday, Steady Man and I decided to surprise her with a special date with her parents. On the morning of the chosen Saturday in November, I informed Lizard that she and I were going shopping. We went to a local mall where she tried on many party dresses. The one she loved best was a floor-length red gown with a modified sweetheart neckline on a lightly bedazzled bodice with shoulder straps and a statement belt. To complete the look, we also bought new black heels and visited the hair salon for Lizard's first updo. Although she didn't know where we were going, she knew this was going to be a special day. At home, after she was dressed and ready to go, Steady Man presented her with a wrist corsage. 

Our destination was the historic and elegant The Jefferson Hotel in Richmond, VA for afternoon tea. Twelve US Presidents, including Harrison, McKinley, Wilson, Coolidge, Taft, both Roosevelts (Theodore and Franklin Delano), Truman and Reagan, both Bushes (George H. W. and George W.) and Obama have been guests at The Jefferson Hotel.

Afternoon Tea at The Jefferson Hotel. We were given a secluded alcove in which to enjoy our tea. 

Lizard opens her first gift from her dad: a beautiful key. 

Steady Man explained that the key was symbolic of the affections of her heart and he asked her if she would trust him to protect her and to "hold the key to her heart" for her during her youth. 

Lizard was thrilled to return the symbolic key to her heart to her dad for his protection.
She was also amused that her first gift had been given back and wondered if her next gift would get to stay in her possession. (Spoiler alert: she gets to keep it.)

Birthday Creme Brulee with an edible Happy Birthday-emblazoned chocolate wafer.

Lizard's next gift was a necklace that features a small gemstone from Amy's wedding ring.
(Amy still wears her wedding ring. She got a bigger gemstone for her 20th anniversary). 

Steady Man then gave Lizard a blessing. He spoke of the many things about Lizard that bring him delight, about his hopes and prayers for her future and about his love for her. Lizard basked in this attention from her dad.
The photos tell the story best.

Taking a tour around the hotel. 

We hope that Lizard will remember and treasure her 13th birthday celebration with her parents all her life.