Five years ago today, I was in the hospital waiting for our daughter to come. Little did I know what the next 5 years would hold. I look back at photos from that day with a nostalgia of the dreams of a young version of myself. No idea of how I would change. And no clue that God would use my daughter to help change me. This little girl has taught me what love is. She has taught me to play. To embrace life with a creative curiosity. Giving me a chance to grow and learn and change. But enough about me. This day is hers. So, today I celebrate who she is today and who she is becoming.

I celebrate her paper bags filled with gifts from the heart. I celebrate her hands that pour a cup of water for the sick. I celebrate the songs of her heart to the God that fearfully & wonderfully made her. I celebrate the art that hangs on my fridge which shows her love for things unseen. I celebrate her body that moves perfectly to every beat of Justin Bieber. I celebrate her mind that yearns to know not only what but why. I celebrate her knees that are bent as she participates in the remembrance of our Lord. I celebrate her care for the broken in body and spirit. I celebrate her spirit that gives a cause for us to put the lock on the wrong side of the door. I celebrate her ease in forgiving me. I celebrate her love for memories. And I celebrate her dreams for the future. Mostly I celebrate her love for our God. Our God that has given us such a gift as Bella Grace for this time and for always.

So, Happy Birthday sweet girl! I will never stop celebrating you.