Happy Birthday, Charlie!

Three years ago today, we were on our way to Abbot Northwestern to have our heart baby.  Charlie Lynn was born around dinnertime and was whisked right away to Children's NICU across the street.  We knew ahead of time about her heart, but she looked perfect to us anyway.

She didn't want her picture taken right away, but let me tell you how perfect she was.  She had a perfect round little head.  She had a perfect little nose.  Her cheeks were sweet and soft.  She had ten perfect little fingers and ten perfect little toes.

Charlie has been through so much in her life, she is the strongest little one I know.  Her imperfect little heart was made stronger by her will.  She has always been a happy, thoughtful child, even in the worst of times.

When I look into her eyes, I know that she is wise beyond her time.

She lights up this family with her big, big personality.  She loves us and we love her very, very much.

Happy Third Birthday Charlie Lynn.  May it be one of many, many happy days we spend together.

You are my sunshine.