4th Birthday

Almost 4 years ago, I gave birth to the most beautiful baby girl I could have ever imagined. As all parents know, it changed my life and AFJW and I began a life full of adventure together. She was by my side as I studied for my degree and worked full time as a single parent. Despite the obstacles, I saw each day as a gift promising quietly to her every moment I held her in my arms that I would take care of her and love her.


Looking back on that blisteringly cold blizzard day that she was born at the UofM hospital, I am so amazed at how far she has come and how far we have come - as mother and daughter and as a family member with our beloved ZJW who has completed our clan.

She was an easy, healthy baby who slept easily through the night and despite a rocky start was a champion breast feeder. I recall her bright wide eyes the minute she was born, already eager to see the world and hilarity of her propping up her foot on the 'tub' during her first bath in the hospital. Most of all, I was amazed at how much love I had for this little person and even more amazed at how I can honestly say that that love is even stronger to date.

Today, she dreams of becoming a ballerina, any kind of performer it seems as I recently discovered when she so easily belt out the tunes of Mamma Mia and Dream Girls on the karaoke. She's been sitting through her Tito Nicko's jazz concerts since the age of 2 and by 3 was able to see the wonderment of the symphony. Indeed, she has also begun taking violin lessons more enthusiasm that I would have ever expected.

I am so proud and so honored to be her mother. I so cherish our gentle moments in the morning when she often caresses my face and tells me how beautiful I am and how much she loves me. Makes me wonder if all these years of my telling her these things has brained washed her!! All the same, it melts my heart and I long for little else than her happiness and ability to live a wonderful life.

While I have the privilege of having her home with me, I am so happy and proud of the solid relationship we all have as a unit. We take everyday for the gift that it is and are so happy to have one another and our families!