TEN

Dearest Gracelyn Marie,

Today you are ten. TEN. Double digits. The "fun" ASL number. I am amazed by this. Amazed that ten years have passed since you entered and changed this world. Amazed that they've gone so quickly and so slowly all at the same time. Amazed that, with all you've endured, you are here... and sassy, sweet, silly and totally ready to celebrate. You are keenly aware that today is going to be all about you. I am amazed at how saying that you are "ten" takes my breath away a bit. Amazed, more than anything, my sweet girl, by you. You are our miraculous, courageous, spunky, spirited, brave, smart, resilient, loving, funny, popular (serious "likes" for anything about you on facebook! LOL!), beautiful girl.

This journey you are on (and that we are on with you) is certainly not one that Daddy or I would have chosen.  The challenges you've faced and will continue to face, the daily pain and discomfort, the hell you've been through on so many levels... these are not things that any parent chooses for their child.  To say, "I wouldn't change a thing" is an outright lie.  I would change all of that... take all the bad away in a heartbeat... if, and only if, you would still be you.  If, and only if, we could still look at life in the same way that we do being your (as you are) parents.  If, and only if, your warrior spirit and spunky personality would be totally intact.  But, we know this is not possible and, therefore, I wouldn't change anything. 

You have, in your ten years, endured more than most people endure in their entire lifetime... and you do so with such Grace.  It is our honor and privilege to be your parents.  You are our greatest teacher, our inspiration, our living angel and reminder to take each day, each moment, by breathing in and living in the moment.

Happy 10th birthday, sweet girl.
All my love,
Mommy

Looking back on birthdays...
Five
Six
Seven
Eight
Nine