Happy Birthday, Babies!

Today we celebrate the birthdays of some very special people who came into the world, changed it forever, and left too quickly.

Vivian and Annemarie, I love you with all my heart and I always will. You will always be my baby girls, and I will always love you. I miss you every day, and look for your smiles in the faces of your sisters, Paprika and Ginger.



Today is also the birthday of my friend Kimber's first daughter, Kambry Danielle Tolbert. She was born on July 12, 2006 at 12:54pm and passed away at 5:15pm on July 12th, 2006. I was pregnant with Paprika when Kimber was pregnant with Kambry, and we went through our pregnancies together. Words cannot describe how Kambry's life affected so many others, and especially my own. I had no idea that two short years later, my twins would be born on the same day. Kambry would be five years old today, and she is so dearly missed.



And I also want to say Happy Birthday to my dear cousin, Steven, who passed away on August 8th of last year at the age of 21. He would be 22 years old today. His loss is felt so deeply by everyone who knew him, and the world will never ever be the same with him gone.



Thinking about these beautiful souls, I cannot imagine that they are no longer here with us. It is just unimagineable to me most days, and today especially. I am so glad that they lived and impacted the world and brought so much joy to so many. But I am so sad that they are not here to celebrate with us today.



My friend, Carly, who is without a doubt one of the most beautiful and special people walking planet Earth, drew these names and butterflies in the sand. Her talent is beyond words, and she created this special butterfly for Steven, as well as all the photos of Vivian and Annemarie's names, and Kambry's name in the sand. Since 2008, Carly has written thousands of names in the sand for children who have passed away. Her websites are: Names in the Sand and Butterfly Beach. Love you, Carly! You are an angel walking on Earth!



If you have a moment today, I would love it if you would light a candle, send off a balloon, or spend a few moments of quiet reflection thinking about Vivian, Annemarie, Kambry, and Steven. Your support has meant so much to me and my family over the years, and I can't thank you enough for being there on this journey with us over the past three years. (((((hugs)))))



Happy Birthday, beautiful souls in Heaven! We love you and miss you with all our hearts!