Happy Birthday Sweet Girl

I truly believe that each day we are alive changes our life somehow. Some days are big changes and other days, little changes. 14 years ago this morning our sweet Brianna Lynne was born and later that evening we said Goodbye.

For me this was one of those big change days. For me that day tore me apart and made me a new person, a better person. I think with each struggle, pain, upset we go through we have the opportunity to grow and become someone better or we have the opportunity to do just the very opposite. I promise you that I did not wake up that next morning feeling like a better person, or wanting to be one. I woke up instead a very angry person and I felt that way for quite some time.

Those next few months I have never prayed so much in all of my life and I am thankful every day that anytime I felt angry that is exactly what I did. I am even more thankful that God took one of the worst moments of my life, when life dished me one of the worst things it could offer and helped me to become a better person, but even more than that, the best Mother I can be.

Brianna’s short life taught me so much about life and all of the things I want from it. I spend as much time as possible with our children. I have a different relationship with them than I think I would have if I wouldn’t have been shown first hand how short this life is. It has shaped my careers over the years and the quality of time I spend with my kids. It has made me appreciate all of the people in my life and my bond with them. I am still growing and will be even during my years as a grandmother one day. But I do know for certain I do not take for granted a single moment with my kids, my husband, my nieces, my nephews, family and friends that I am so blessed to have share this life with me.

As for my sweet angel, I know I will hold her in my arms once again one day and this time we will have an eternity together! But for the time being, she has the most amazing people surrounding her, whom I also miss dearly. I am not going to wish away a single moment though, because this life is short and I want to embrace all that I can of it!

Happy 14th Birthday Brianna Lynne – Love Mom, Dad & your sisters & brother xox