A Tribute to Miss Gabbi

To my beautiful princess, Gabriella, on her third birthday...


Three years ago, you arrived and became the first miracle of my life. When I became a mommy, your mommy, I knew that it was the one thing that would shape the rest of my life. When I was pregnant with you, we chose a name for you that would truly embody what you already meant to us. "Gabriella" means "God gives us strength". He did just that for us through you. When daddy was sick, you gave us the strength and hope that both of us needed to get through each day. We knew that we had a reason for being here and being together--and that reason was you.


Every night, when I was sad or scared, you were there to give me the kick I needed to get back up and do needed to be done. You were my hope for our family, and today, you still represent that for us.


Today, I watched you parade around the house in your beautiful princess dresses, leaving a trail of glitter and  the clip-clop of baby high heels behind you. You are the lovely, joyful, vivacious little girl that I knew you would be. Your smile is still what gives me hope, and your silly songs and stories make every day worth it. 


Today is bittersweet. As we wait to hear about the arrival of your brothers, I am so blessed and overjoyed to see our family grow. But I also know that today will probably be the last birthday you spend as an only child. Our weekend at the "Magic Lake" was beautiful, but I know that will probably be our last vacation as a family of three. I know that you, my darling Miss Gabbi, will probably have the biggest transition to make as our family grows. But know this---YOU are what has made me want to be a mommy again so very badly. YOU are the one who has taught me patience and laughter and humility. You are a compassionate, bright, silly, wonderful little person, and I know that you will add so much to the lives of your siblings. You are what has made this house whole, and now we can share that with others. Being your mommy is the best job in the world.


I know that now you think you are a "big girl", but remember---I will always be your mommy, you will always need me just a little bit, and no matter what, you will always be my baby girl; my first miracle. 


I love you always and forever,
Mommy