Isabella Song

Last Friday was our sweet little daughter's birthday--our firstborn, the one who blessed us with her presence from the beginning of our marriage.  I still can't believe she is officially two years old already!  I am the only one who has real memories of her beyond her birthday, and in my mommy heart she's about two years six months old.  I remember how she kicked and squiggled inside me, how she would respond to our voices, and dance to loud music.  Two years ago I was weeping over my tiny baby in the NICU unit at the hospital, crying for joy over my daughter, pain at seeing all the tiny wires and needles in her delicate little body, and in frustration trying to get her to eat enough so she could come HOME.

Well, she's been part of our family for two years now and we can't imagine life without her smile, laughter, little feet running about the house and yard, and sober observations in her rapidly expanding vocabulary.  TJ and I are beyond blessed!!!!

Yesterday I was out in the detached garage doing laundry, and I heard Bella calling for me from the house, "Mommy!  Mommy!" (My heart melts every time I hear my name in her little voice!)  I answered, "Bella!  Bella!"
     "I'm coming!" she called, and ran to find me.  She found me, gave me a kiss, and said "Bye now!" and went off to play.

Oh my darling little daughter, your father and I love you so!  I hope you always know that, and know we will support you 100% in every area of your life, guiding you towards the smart, correct, loving, and godly way of living, and lifting you up when you fall down and make mistakes.  It will be hard keeping our hands off and letting you fly, and yet our hearts will burst with pride when you soar to heights we ourselves did not achieve.  You are smart, amazing, beautiful, and so full of potential I want to cry when I think of it.  Keep your innocent, trusting, loving heart, my girl.  You will be hurt because of it, but the pain is worth it.  Your sweet spirit is to be valued above all things, and when all the sordid world around you gossips and snipes at each other and looks out for only themselves, you will be a shining star, a song whispering hope into the wind.  Song is your name, and a beautiful song you are, in our lives and the lives of all who know you!

On Saturday we had a birthday party for Bella at the park nearest our house.  It was so much fun seeing friends old and new!  They were generous with their gifts, and everyone seemed to thoroughly enjoy themselves.  The kids played on the play equipment, the ladies visited and played with the babies, and the guys had a vigorous game of basketball.  We ate chocolate cake and strawberries, and Bella opened her presents.  She was like a little princess in her fancy dress and cowboy boots!

As everyone says, they grow up way too quickly.

I love you, my Isabella Greer!