Dear Child of My Heart

Not a day goes by that I don't look at you and remember. 

I remember how I begged and begged God for just one more. I remember how I just knew, deep down inside, that you were you and He was going to give us the great gift of this dear girl.

 

I remember how still I was while waiting for you, so sick I could barely move, the whole nine months, but so afraid, too, that this precious little one might not be mine to hold.

And I remember that glorious day when I did hold you. And hold you. And hold you. When all the world seemed utterly perfect. 

I remember your perfect rosebud lips and that delicious smell. I remember that your name, chosen weeks before your birthday, suited you the moment we first whispered it to you.

The day you were born might just be my Best Day Ever.

Except for all the days that have come in the five years since. 

All the times you have twirled and charmed and delighted and danced your way into my heart and made the whole world sparkle with joy.

All the times you have shown me how tenderly He loves me.

And I still hold you, golden hair against my cheek, your heart beating next to mine. This life we share? It's very sweet, indeed.

Happy Birthday, Karoline Rose.