You are One.

I look down at my daughter, tears streaming down my face. They're just before breaking into the ugly cry,” We made it….we made it you and I….” The tears keep streaming down my face as I continue, “One whole year… Can you believe that? You are one year old today.”

I try to smile, looking into her eyes, wiping away my tears with my hoodie sleeve.

My fingers softly trace her face. “You are so beautiful... You are the best thing mommy has. ”

I gently grab my daughter's hand with two fingers, “Yes, you are, sweetheart. Yes, you are.”

My daughter keeps nursing from my breast as we share a quiet moment.

I break the silence softly. “Boy, have we been through a lot, you and I? But I would do it all again if I knew the result would be you.”

“Happy birthday, my little Princess.”