I can remember growing up wishing that I had a sister. Yes, I had my brother, but there was only so much he could understand as a male. And with us being 7 1/2 years apart, we didn’t have a whole lot in common. When I was really small, I was so desperate to have a sister, I would pretend that Janet Jackson was my sister! Ha! Although I was young, I longed for someone to talk to that could understand me and just be my friend.  Well, unfortunately mom and dad never had any more kids, so that was it. No sisters for me--at least not biologically. However, over the years, I have come to realize that God had a different plan for me. He brought several sisters into my life at various points to fill that empty spot in my heart. Some were only in my life for a season and others are still very much a part of my life today. And as time has gone on, I have come to appreciate what real sisterhood looks like. As women and as mothers we often need those "sister" relationships. Thes...

My dearest Joshua, Today, we celebrate your second birthday. I thought it would be a good idea to write you a letter. I know you won't remember much about this day, but this is a really special day and I want you to always know that on this day we honored you. Over the last few days, as we anticipated this day, many thoughts crossed my mind. It was on my heart to share with you just how special you are and how grateful we are for your presence. I think back to when I first found out we were expecting you. I was shocked needless to say. You were a total surprise…a pleasant one. I was a bit overwhelmed at first because I wasn’t sure how we would handle three kids. I was scared because I had such a traumatic experience during and after the birth of your brother Trent. I was worried because your brother Jason had challenges and I did not want that for your life. But after filtering through all of those feelings, I found myself back in a place of hope. I became hopeful because ...