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On My Three Beautiful Girls


I woke up this morning with one thought- I am getting old! One of my girls turned 16 today and in just a few days, her sisters will turn 17! You see, I first met these angels when I was 13. At the time, they were on the verge of turning four and five. For me, it was love at first sight. I've always connected very well with kids and there was just something about the three of them.

I soon learned that life was not easy for them. Their Daddy was not the nicest to them and their Mom tended to be very loud at times. Often I was horrified by what I witnessed and heard each weekend when spending time with my Dad. I quickly began spending each waking moment with them- laughing and talking to them, tickling and giggling, holding, hugging. They loved sitting on my lap and pushing me in my chair. I loved getting to know them, simply listening, taking it all in, and offering them stability and normalcy. We would spend many hours outside in the summer, at the playground, taking walks, being silly. During the week, I would call them, to hear their voices, to know they were okay.

Social services was called on several times- the girls were removed from the home a couple times. At times I was in contact with social workers explaining things that no young girl should have to. I'm happy to report that as far as I know the abuse is no longer taking place and the girls are happy, well adjusted teens.

It's hard for me to explain just what I feel for these sweet, sweet girls! Because of them, I learned to appreciate the family that God blessed me with. I quickly learned the power of a hug, the meaning of  unconditional love, and the feeling that is felt when you hear the words, "I love you." In a heartbeat, I'd lay down my life for any one of them.

We've certainly grown up- I don't see them nearly as often as I'd like to, and don't talk to them on a very regular basis. But the bond between us will never be broken. They know that I will always be there, no matter what. As I was beginning this post, I received a message from one of them and I was overcome with emotion. They have become three amazing young women and what a blessing it has been to watch them grow up and be a part of their lives, even if it is sometimes at a distance.

These pictures are several years old now, but they are some of my favorites!
 
  My three little girls you'll always be; forever and always a part of me.

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