Dear Alden,

Happy Birthday (tomorrow) sweet girl! I cannot believe you are one! I know that’s what all parents say, but it seems impossible you’ve been here for a year, yet it seems like you’ve been here for an entire lifetime.

When I was pregnant with you, I remember feeling anxious about you arriving and also missing your sister. One day, your Daddy told me that some day we wouldn’t know how to live without you in our lives. I couldn’t see it clearly at that time, but he was very right.

I cannot put into words what it feels like to wake up every day knowing I get to spend the day with you. You came into our lives when we needed you most, and you are perfect. You are so happy and funny. You have a HUGE personality, and you love your brother so much.

When your sister died, I never thought my heart could feel happiness again. I felt scared and alone. I felt sad and confused. When we transferred you into my body, I remember feeling scared. What if I didn’t get to keep you, either? When you started to grow, so did my anxiety.

My pregnancy with you was so scary. Every day I woke up thinking I had lost you, then you would kick and reassure me you weren’t going anywhere.

On March 15th, 2017 at 8:59 a.m. you came into my life and made me a Mommy for the 3rd time. You are amazing and you have helped to heal my heart in ways I never thought possible.

I love you Alden Emilene– thank you for being mine. I cannot believe I get to keep you. I hope someday you understand the depth of my love for you.

Love,

Mommy