Happy Birthday Ava!

If I only had one word to describe you it would be JOY! You radiate joy! My sweet Ava, You have grown into a beautiful girl with such a huge personality. Everyone you come in contact with, whether it be someone we know or a complete stranger, falls in love with you instantly because you radiate joy. You draw everyone into your world.

I can't believe that one whole year has gone by. It has been such an amazing year. It's been full of ups and downs, and many surprises. The first moment I met you, I saw your little mad face and I knew something wasn't quite right. It was hard to tell in that moment because you were swollen and had been through quite the ordeal. A few days passed and it was more evident to me that something wasn't right. It was so frustrating because in the hospital the doctors never acknowledged that they saw what I saw. A few days later we went to your pediatrician and she confirmed what I didn't want to hear. And so the journey began. We went to a specialist, then to another one and before we knew it we had a whole team of doctors taking over your care. After poking, prodding, tests, CT scans and who knows what else you were diagnosed with Hemifacial microsomia. We were also told at that time that you may have cognitive problems, but those would be evident through time. This past year, Ava, you have exceeded my expectations. You are so extremely smart, loving, and funny. I have watched you grow into this powerhouse in a little tiny body. It's amazing to me how quickly you adapt to your world around you. You have learned to communicate so well through sign language. You signed "sleep please" an hour ago and now are resting peacefully. You are so incredibly bright and I am so grateful that you chose to come to our family.

Also, in the first moments I met you I felt of your spirit. Wow, what an amazing and powerful spirit you have. You came here to earth with a special mission. What that is I am not sure yet, but you came to teach us all. I know that you knew exactly what you were coming down to and that you chose this body that you have been given. Ava, I pray that you never lose sight of who you are and how extremely special you are. As your mother I worry that when you realize that you don't look like everyone else that it might bring you down or break your spirit a little. In those moments I pray that you will see what I see and more importantly, that you will see what our Heavenly Father and Mother has created. A perfect soul. You are absolutely perfect just the way you are. I love your little face and your crooked teeth and I love your strong and vibrant spirit. I feel extremely blessed to have you as my daughter and almost unworthy. Ava, I look forword to this journey that we are on. You teach me great lessons of strength and love and most importantly you teach me what true joy feels like. My sweet Ava, you ARE joy! Happy birthday my little one! I love you.