39w4d

39 weeks and 4 days.  As of yesterday, I've officially carried Emily in my arms as long as I did in my belly!

The past 18 months have been one wild ride.  I've laughed a lot, cried some, smiled until my face hurt, grew as a person {literally and figuratively!}, worried a bunch, enjoyed countless snuggles, gave up on ever sleeping soundly again, mastered new skills I never even knew existed, and I've learned more about life's meaning, love and my own strength than I ever thought imaginable.  One of the greatest honors in my life has been the chance to add the role of "mother" to my repertoire.

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I wouldn't trade the time I've had with Emily & Shep as we grew into our own little family of three for anything in the universe.  If I died tomorrow, I could honestly say I've lived a blessed life.

"The greatest thing you'll ever learn, is just to love and be loved in return."

Dearest Emily, I carried you in my belly for 9 months but will carry you in my heart forever.  You have brought so much love and joy into my heart.  For as long as I live, I will spend every hour of every day sharing my love with you.  Love, Mommy