I got to spend some time with my sister and My Little Princesses today, including My Newest Little Princess, Coralyse.  It amazes me how much they all fill me with joy.  I enjoy conversations with My Toot and all the personalities of my little nieces.  I’m grateful today for these precious moments and to have so much love and joy in my life.

I was 16 years old when my little brother, Christopher, was born.  I immediately fell in love.  He was such a delightful little blessing.  Crestina and I babied and spoiled him like nobody’s business.  He brought so much light to us after such a dark time.

Almost like a mother for her son, it’s been tough watching him grow up.  My Little Brother is now a young man.  It’s hard to believe at times as I so vividly remember this little character who lit up my life the moment he entered it.

I left home to move on with my own life when he was only two years old.  Today he turned 23.  I missed a large chunk of his childhood, but my love for him has been constant.  I’m so proud of the man he’s become.  And I’m so grateful to know him as an adult, to have become closer to him more than ever before, and most of all, that he’s My Little Brother.

I love you so much, Christopher.  I give thanks for you everyday.

I have been blessed with My Newest Little Princess, Coralyse Baylin Hardie, who was born today.  At 7 lbs 13 oz and 20 inches long, this tiny little gem melts my heart.  To date, Coralyse has 3 big sisters and 7 big girl cousins who will undoubtedly smother her with love and attention.

I love being an aunt and My Newest Little Princess makes me proud Auntie Anna to niece number 7.  I’m so grateful for my healthy, happy, and beautiful Coralyse.

I think I was a little hesitant about my step-mom joining our family at first.  I can barely remember because whatever hesitancy or resistance I may have had quickly subsided as I came to know her and how happy she made my dad.  She became my “Mom”, and she filled a space in my heart that was desperately in need of maternal love.

Soon after they married, I felt a mutual respect we had for one and other, along with the respect she had for my mother.  She never attempted to take my mother’s place.  Instead, I felt I always had her love and support whenever I needed it.  Mom knew how rough I had it losing my mother, and I felt like she gave me my space, allowed me to go through all my teenaged angst, and understood me more than Daddy did at times.

Fast forward to 24 years later, after Daddy’s illness and passing – I find myself closer to my Mom than ever before.  We need each other now more than ever.  She is part of my connection to my father.  She is my only parent now.  And I know that I will continue to have her love and support, just as she has mine.

Mom, I love you so much.  And I’m so grateful that you are my Mom.