The biggest, reddest dog on our street

Think for a moment and recall, if you will, the most excitement you've ever felt. Was it your first kiss? Or the day you learned to ride a bike? Or coming downstairs on Christmas morning as a kid? Or your wedding day? Or graduation? Or the birth of your children?

Whatever it was, I can guarantee you the emotions you felt at that moment pale in comparison to what my daughter felt this morning. Because on this most glorious of Saturdays, she finally got to meet her hero.

"This is Clifford, the big red dog. Other kids I know have dogs too. Some are big dogs. And some are red dogs. But Clifford is the biggest, reddest dog on our street."

-Clifford the Big Red Dog

Words will never describe the pure joy on her face as she caught a glimpse of Clifford peeking out from behind the bookshelves at storytime this morning. And if you weren't there, you'll never understand how absolutely mesmerized she was by this big red character, and how desperately she wanted nothing more than to be close to him, to touch his paws, kiss his nose, and sit on his big red lap. Of all the toddlers in attendance this morning, I can safely say she was the only Clifford groupie. My apologies to all the other parents for the fact that my daughter will be in all of your pictures. She simply could not be pulled away from the dog.

It was a beautiful moment, and one I'm overjoyed to have been able to make happen for her. This is what being a mom is all about, and these are the moments I live for. A year from now, I doubt she'll remember this ever happened. And maybe her obsession with Clifford will have ended. But rest assured, this is one Saturday morning I'll never forget.

Click here for more pictures of the best day of Abby's life.