Erika is 3!

Three years ago tonight, Chris and got the phone call that changed our lives forever. Our Erika Grace was born that very night—two weeks early and just one day after my 29th birthday. She was the best birthday gift I have ever received.

We threw some things in a bag and headed to Cambridge Medical Center to meet our baby girl. She was the purplest, loveliest thing we had ever seen in our lives.

And now I celebrate her birthday for the first time without her daddy. She had a mere two birthdays with him. She told me she wished that Daddy could come to her birthday party... Oh Baby, I'm so sorry.

But today, like yesterday, I celebrate. I do not grieve—not today anyway. Today I celebrate the vibrant, extraverted, funny, brilliant, excitable, chattering, beautiful daughter I'm blessed to call mine. The girl who wanted a Kipper birthday this year. And wanted Daddy to be there.

Erika, you have changed me and challenged me in ways no other person ever could have. Your presence in my life means hope, joy, laughter. I love you so much—my heart feels that it just might burst. I'm so glad I'm your mom. And I'm so proud of you. This video is for you.