Happy 9th Birthday Gabrielle!

Yes, my baby girl is 9 years old. Wednesday was her Birthday. I woke up and saw her come down the stairs and it just was strange. I remember when she was one, she would stand at the gate at the top of the stairs and say "Mommy, cooooooooome get me, I'm awaaaaaaaaake". How is she 9? She has become such a wonderful young girl, very talented and smart. I always get emotional as she gets older. I guess I thought she would stay small forever. Gabrielle is a lot of things to me. She came into my life and changed me forever.

In a lot of ways, she is my hero. I was a young mom, like what you see on MTV's Teen Mom, but I wasnt crazy like them LOL. I remember finding out I was pregnant with her, and I got a lot of mixed opinions and emotions from others. My friend Courtney, met me at the high school, in the parking lot at like 5 am. And we drove to her Sunday School teachers house, she was a nurse. I remember when she put the test down in front of me, and I didnt know what to think or do. I felt strange. My friend was crying. I waited 8 whole weeks to tell anyone. But I grew up, and Gabrielle helped me grow up. I remember the first opportunity I had to make a decision, 'right or wrong' and instead of the little devil or angel on your shoulder, I saw Gabrielles sweet little face. In that moment, I knew what I needed to do. And it has been that way ever since. There were times in Nursing School where I just wanted to give up, but I would come home to Gabrielle and she would be there with her books to help me 'study'. She pushed me like no one has ever been able to. I graduated, and at my Pinning Ceremony, she was there on the stage with me, and she had the biggest smile on her face. I knew then that I would live for that smile. I think we have always had a special closeness. She truly is my best friend. We fight like friends too :) But she has and always will be my partner, my best friend, and my saving Grace.

Gabrielle is very special to a lot of people. We are all very blessed to have her in our lives. For however you know her, you are truly blessed. I dont think I know a more sweet, well balanced, thoughtful, big hearted, intelligent 9 year old girl. Thanks for being you Gabrielle, and thank you for calling me your Mommy. I love you always and forever :)