To my beautiful daughter on her 25th birthday

To my beautiful daughter on her 25th birthday.  

25 years ago on this day, my world changed forever.  I was heading down a dark road paved with the pain and suffering of a family cursed with addiction, death and heartache.  I didn’t know at that time how bad things were because I had never really experienced anything different. I figured it out really fast the day they placed this 7 lb. 10 oz. angel in my arms.  She was absolutely perfect in every way.  Her hair was dark and full, her eyes were a bluish speckle, she smelled like a fresh fall morning, and even though she peed on me every time I took her diaper off, she completely devoured my heart and soul.  For the first time in my life, I was frozen with love and overwhelming joy.  I no longer thought or cared about what was good for me because all I wanted was what was best for her.  She was the healing light I needed to get off that dark road, break the curse, and find another path.  

I wasn’t always the best at knowing what to do as a mother, (I didn’t really have any examples growing up) but I did know one thing that was unwavering.  I knew that I loved her with all of my heart and soul. I believe that love conquered every obstacle because she grew into the most amazing woman I have ever known.  She is kind and forgiving.  Her heart is full of charity and love.  She doesn’t hesitate to help those less fortunate than herself, and she walks this earth with with brilliant light and powerful bravery.  I thought I was responsible for teaching her about life, yet she was the one who taught me.  

25 years ago on this day, they placed a 7 lb. 10 oz. angel in my arms……..  An angel named Ashley.

Happy Birthday my love.  

Love

Mom