Today is Mari’s birthday, or at least it would have been. She would have turned 9 years old. I think back to 9 years ago and how I had a very difficult time delivering her. She had an extremely hard time coming into this world. It seems like she has always been a fighter. She always fought for what SHE wanted. It did not matter what anyone else wanted.

Mari would have had such a good time today. All of her cousins from her daddy’s side were here today, her aunt’s and some of her uncles, and grandma and grandpa. We all celebrated her life together today. To remember her is so vital; it is so important.

It is hard to truly be thankful for things these days. If I had to try to find something I am thankful for I guess it would be that we do have Keith’s family right by us. We could be stationed in another state away from all family and friends that we know. It is hard for me to say I am thankful though. I mean, I know I am truly grateful for so much but it feels like when I say I am thankful then it feels in a way that I am thankful that she is gone, and of course, I am anything but. I miss her so much. Her birthday today is just so bitter sweet. It would have been another day that she would have gotten older while reminding ALL of us that she will never get older. She will always remain for the rest of all of our lives until the last person who knew her as our 8 ½ little girl that is so well missed.

My hope is that every year we have a celebration of her life party on the day that is her birthday. To celebrate her life is to always remember her and to always remember her is more important than almost anything else I could possible think about. We love you Mari and will see you soon.