One Year Ago,

We woke up early as we had to head out early to get our fingerprints done for our USCIS application. We also awoke to the news that we had been blessed with 2 new nieces. They were both born at 1 lb. 6 oz. and 12 inches long. I remember the joy and fear being so intertwined in my heart and mind it was palpable. We made the 6 hour trek the very next day to meet these beauties. Thinking back on all that transpired during the 2 days of Breley's miraculous life makes it difficult to breathe, even a year later (how one small child changes lives of so many in such a short time may very well always boggle my mind). Kailey, when I think of you, I think of all that is amazing about this world. You make our lives brighter, just by being in them. Thank you.

I wrote these letters to our nieces after meeting them for the first time. Reading them a year later, makes me very sad, and yet hopeful. Hard to describe...


Dearest Angel Kailey,

I was able to see you today, but the NICU staff was providing you with the amazing medical attention that you deserve. I already know how strong you are, because it was difficult for me to watch, but you were most definitely handling it like a champion. I must say, you are an awesome sight even from afar. We love you "to the moon and back." You have been blessed with two sisters, and that is a bond that will guide and support you all of your life. Your big sister, Mya will without a doubt be there for advice, love and protection throughout your life. It is safe to say that she will forever be an incredible role model for both you and Breley. I picture you and Breley having the type of twin bond where you giggle as little girls together over things that only the two of you understand, and having a language together that is all your own. You have been blessed with such incredible parents, and in turn, they have been blessed with you. May you always know that you have aunts and uncles, grandparents and cousins that wrap you in prayer along with your sisters and parents because we care so deeply for you. Continue the good fight, strong little one. Now that I've seen you in person, I am not sure how we all got along without the precious miracle that is you and your sister for all of these years. May you feel the love, faithfulness, strength and peace we have all been praying for from God. All my love.
Auntie L


To Precious Breley,

There were so many things I wanted to tell you when I first met you, but you took my breath away, and I couldn't get my mind and mouth to speak the words. All I could utter were the words, I love you, and maybe that was enough. Maybe in that tiny beating heart of yours, you already know how amazing you are. I could see the love in your mom and dad's eyes as they spoke of you. Such a lucky little girl to be born into such an amazing family. I keep thinking about how years from now, we will get to tell you about all of the people far and wide that prayed for your health and safety. What a beautiful gift that is, much as you are such a blessing from God. I have one sister in this world, and she is quite possibly my best friend. I was lucky enough to get such an amazing and strong sister-in-law as your mom. God has blessed you with 2 sisters, and that is a bond that cannot be adequately described with words. I have watched your big sister, Mya grow up in the last 6 years, and have no doubt that she is an incredible, little girl. She will always be there for you and provide you with advice, love and protection. Never forget that. I just need you to know that we continue to wrap you in prayer, so that God can continue his divine work in your life and provide you with the strength and peace that you need. All my love, dearest Breley.