Miss Harper Taj,
When we found out that you had Down syndrome, I wondered how that extra 21st chromosome was going to affect you? The more I watch you grow into the little girl you are already, the more I can't wait to see the person you become and the only thing I need to know about that extra chromosome is that it's a part of what's made you who you are and I wouldn't change a thing about you if I could. I love you and am so proud of you Harper. Thank you for reminding me how important it is to stop and dance even in the hardest of times.
On the second day in the hospital after your heart surgery, as I held you in my arms cuddling you, wishing I could take just any ounce of pain away... a short song came on and you raised your arm, did your Harper fist pump dance for a moment and then fell back into my arms. By day three you were sitting up in the hospital crib with Mason playing with toys. By day four, we were home. It wasn't much longer before you were back to pulling yourself up to the table and bopping your dance the way you do with your smile that lights up the entire room.
You have never given up. You have never quit. Times when I want to save you and make it easier, you make a point to try again and show me just what a strong and independent girl you are becoming. We go to therapies and you and your friends lead by example. You remind me every day to enjoy the small things and have provided a whole new perspective in life for me, one for the better.
I love the way you laugh from your belly. I love the way your smile is contagious. I love when you get excited and express it from head to toe. I love when you hug and squeeze so tight. I love your Harper swag crawl. I love your determination. I love how much you love lunches out, shopping & the beach. I love that you want to feel, touch & see everything. I love your curiosity. I love watching you learn. I love learning from you. I love how sweet you are but I also love how sassy you can be. I love that you like to help pick out your outfits. I love when you help me get ready even if it takes twice as long. I love watching you with your brother and daddy.
I love spending life with you and being a part of your journey. I consider myself the luckiest mother in the world to have you and Mason as my kids. Thank you for being the daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, friend and all around person you are. You inspire many everyday by simply just being you. I love you so much.
Love, Mom