2 years ago today, my first born child came into this world. It was a day I will never forget. Filled with excitement, anticipation, fear, sadness, and pure joy. To be honest I remember the day being a complete emotional rollercoaster from the moment that Evie was born and they wisked her away to the NICU. The hours and days and weeks and months that followed were the most difficult time in my life. However, today I find myself 2 years along in this journey of life, marriage, parenthood, and Down Syndrome, and I can honestly say with every breath of my being that I feel truly blessed. If I could go back in time to that day Evie was born and tell myself and Isa that in just 2 short years from now Evie would be a happy, smart, witty, active and beautiful little girl, full of life and potential, I would. I realize now that I had to feel those feelings and learn what I have learned, to be the person I am today.
To my sweet Evie,
Words cannot describe the love that I have for you in my heart. With every smile you give me, every step you take, every word you say, you remind me just how full of life you are. If given the choice today, I would not change one single thing about you. I want you to know that your life will be full of challenges, as all of us face, but you will have a different hurdle to overcome. I am confident that with the love, guidance, and support of your family, you will do amazing things. In just 2 short years, you have changed my world forever. I am now a more compassionate person, a more patient person, a more understanding person, a more giving person and a better parent. You have taught me more than you will ever know and I look forward to standing by you for every laugh, milestone and major accomplishment that is in your future. Without you, I would truly not be living.
I love you so much. Happy Birthday Evelyn Riisen!!
Love Mommy
