My Gift

In so many ways this child is my "mini-me", but in just as many other ways we are vastly different. It has been fun to watch her grow and become Snowflake.  To see her interests and hobbies emerge.

Just like her Mom, she loves comfy & cuddly clothes at night. This outfit sums up her personality.  Fun with flair and cozy.  Exciting and comforting.

While I gravitate more toward Peanuts, Pooh Bear and Calvin and Hobbes, Snowflake chooses: My Little Pony, Shopkins and Paw Patrol. We both agree on the awesomeness of the Berenstain Bears.

I have always wanted to be a mom.  As a kid I pictured myself as a stay at home mom and wife.  We would have 3 kids, 2 dogs and 1 cat. Once the kids were all in school I would either be a substitute teacher or a counselor working from home.

My reality is not what I pictured, dreamed of and prayed for.  My daughter spent her early years in daycare. My ex is in prison for life and our family is: Mom, daughter and 2 cats.

I had to grieve the death of my dreams.  At times I still do.  Joy comes after mourning. It comes when I allow God to give me new dreams, hopes and prayers.  It comes when  I focus not on what I lack, but what I have.

I have this amazing child who has overcome and continues to overcome many obstacles.  I have a girl whom I love and get to call my own. I am a mom to a girl who makes me laugh, cry, smile and fills me with pride and wonder.

Every day I pray to be the best mom I can be, to do my best for her.  I pray she knows she is loved, even on my worst days, on my in bed days, on my grumpy days.

She is a gift that I will never take for granted.