And Now, Four

Dear Hope,

Today you are four.

On this day, in 2008, you came into this world.  In your first breaths you made me a mother.  And when I held you and talked to you and you stopped crying, you made me feel like a mother.  You made me believe in miracles.

Four years of crying and giggling.  Of songs and snuggles.  Reading and playing.  Singing and laughing.

Four years of learning.  Both yours and mine.

Four years of frustration and fears of making a mistake with you, my firstborn.

And I see you now, with your bright eyes and beautiful spirit.  I see how much you’ve grown and flourished.  What a sweet little girl you already are.  Emotional, independent, with a good, good heart.

I cannot imagine my life without you.

You, my dear Hopey, are amazing.

I wish for you all the satisfaction, joy, and health of a fulfilled life.

On this day, and always, I am ever so grateful for your birthday.  For the baby, now a little girl.  For you.

Love to you always,

Mommy

With Hope's special birthday hot chocolate
(and my coffee)

Four years old!

The Birthday Cake --
Littlest Pet Shop rainbow cake
with green and pink frosting