2nd birthday

Today, it is Virginia's 2nd birthday.
I want to be throwing a birthday party, and celebrating her, and watching her laugh.
And that is not what I am doing.

I am sitting in my house, wearing a huge coat, waiting for John to get up so we can find a way to distract ourselves.

But, we will still be celebrating her.
Not in the way I want, but we will be.
Today, there is no other moment that matters.
There is nothing that matters except she is.
She lived, she died, she is.
She is my daughter, she is the love of my life, and she is going to be celebrated today.

I gave birth two years ago to the most beautiful little girl on the planet.
Virginia Jane, and today is for her.
And I don't care who likes it or doesn't.

Today belongs to her.
Every second of it.
Belongs to her.

I was told once that when a young elephant dies the mother will stay with her child.  She will stay without eating and without sleeping, she stays with her baby -- for days.

It has been two years, and I have not left her.  I never will.  And I will never hide her, and I will never keep her a secret.  She is my child, and I am staying with her.

Virginia Jane Phillips today is for you.  And I will spend it with you, and for you.