Happy 4th Birthday to my beautiful Lorelai Audrey Grace – aka Lola, Lolly, Lolly-Grace, Lollypop, etc. etc.
It would be too easy to look back to July 11, 2009, which we spent at Aunt Pub and Uncle Lipper’s – to remember that you didn’t know how to eat your princess cupcakes. We pretended that you were eating them, for the sake of a few photos, but in reality, you weren’t quite there yet. You received tons of presents and lots of love from your extended family – lots of visits from Grama and Grampa, Papa, the Douma gang, the McEwans, the Howsons – the whole gang.
It was last summer when Mary got you to stand (fully supported by her skilled hands and knees) and we all cheered and cried. We were completely amazed that she could get you to bear weight on your legs and support yourself upright – even if she was doing a lot of the work. It gave us a glimpse into your future – one where you walked, and danced, and ran unassisted. Mary gave us the gift of hope that day, which should never be underestimated.
It was last summer when Aunt Mich and Aunt Dina brought over some cute little summer shorts outfits, matching hair bows, and some really cute shoes. When I put the shorts on Lola this week, I was reminded of how excited Mich was to give Lola her present – and how much she loved “little girl” shopping.
To say you’ve come a long way this year would be such an understatement. You’re an amazing little girl. My protective love for you intensifies whenever I watch you go through a difficult medical procedure, or endure something a small girl should never have to experience. I’m reminded of the fragility of life, and how you’ve defied all the odds. I’m just so thankful that you’re here, and that you’re incredibly resilient, and such a joy. I feel lucky – and I know that sounds strange given the hand we’ve been dealt – but I do. I know that you serve a greater purpose – and it’s to help others along the way…to give strength, love, and faith…a second chance. We all need something to believe in, and baby, I believe in you.
It would be too easy to look back to July 11, 2009, which we spent at Aunt Pub and Uncle Lipper’s – to remember that you didn’t know how to eat your princess cupcakes. We pretended that you were eating them, for the sake of a few photos, but in reality, you weren’t quite there yet. You received tons of presents and lots of love from your extended family – lots of visits from Grama and Grampa, Papa, the Douma gang, the McEwans, the Howsons – the whole gang.
It was last summer when Mary got you to stand (fully supported by her skilled hands and knees) and we all cheered and cried. We were completely amazed that she could get you to bear weight on your legs and support yourself upright – even if she was doing a lot of the work. It gave us a glimpse into your future – one where you walked, and danced, and ran unassisted. Mary gave us the gift of hope that day, which should never be underestimated.
It was last summer when Aunt Mich and Aunt Dina brought over some cute little summer shorts outfits, matching hair bows, and some really cute shoes. When I put the shorts on Lola this week, I was reminded of how excited Mich was to give Lola her present – and how much she loved “little girl” shopping.
To say you’ve come a long way this year would be such an understatement. You’re an amazing little girl. My protective love for you intensifies whenever I watch you go through a difficult medical procedure, or endure something a small girl should never have to experience. I’m reminded of the fragility of life, and how you’ve defied all the odds. I’m just so thankful that you’re here, and that you’re incredibly resilient, and such a joy. I feel lucky – and I know that sounds strange given the hand we’ve been dealt – but I do. I know that you serve a greater purpose – and it’s to help others along the way…to give strength, love, and faith…a second chance. We all need something to believe in, and baby, I believe in you.
That is a beautiful post. Lola is absolutely adorable. Thank you for your words of encouragement on our blog (OurClaire).
ReplyDeleteIt is true Lola. You are an inspiration, and your family is very lucky to watch you grow and change everyday! Happy Birthday!
Oh Tiffany - thank you for your kind words. If there's anything I can do - any info or tidbit of information regarding our situation that would help Claire along her way, please don't hesitate to ask. I have tons of info re: types of therapy that have worked, etc. - navigating this slippery slope is exhausting.
ReplyDeleteThinking of you all.
Thank you for Lola's birthday wishes.
This is absolutely beautiful Gill.
ReplyDelete