Guest Post: A Tribute to my Daughter by Jessie Alfieri

I hope you enjoy this beautiful and moving letter by Jessie Alfieri to her daughter as much as I did. Ms. Alfieri graciously allowed me to repost it.***

A Tribute to my DaughterDear Frankie,It has been an amazing 9 months. When we found out in January that we were going to have a new addition to our family, we were thrilled that you would be such an integral part of it. From the moment we told you in May, you were excited and happy to be a new big sister. Not only are you such a smart, sweet, and beautiful little girl, you are taking on the role as a responsible big sister with such grace and seriousness. I am very impressed with you. Especially how much you have proved how big your heart is and the willingness to let our family grow with love.

Sweet girl, I do know that even though you are excited with the idea of your new baby brother, this will be a big transition for you. For four years now, you’ve had my undivided attention. My life is that much more precious and sweet and rare with you in it and you have made me very happy. I still get up every morning, so joyful in the fact that you are my daughter. I wake up with your name on my lips and my every being reaching out to you. I always will. I will forever rejoice in the reality that is you and the bliss you have brought to my life.

Tonight, I will sleep with you. Cuddled in the curl of my body and my pregnant belly, protruding into your little back. Little Brother is coming and he will change us for the better. He will make our family complete and you will find the joy of a sibling that understands you, will listen to you, will grow with you, will argue with you, will protect you, and will love you all your days. You will come across many people in your life, many friends, and many acquaintances, but no one will understand you like another sibling. He will know us and you will know him. And as long as you keep him close, he will be your truest champion. You won’t realize it now, but your friendship will grow and you will develop a bond so close it will encompass you as adults. That is my wish for you, my wish for you both.

You are my firstborn. My first love, my first true heartache. As you were born, you made me into a mother. You were the only one to do that. I will cherish our 4 years alone together. Not that our connection will change, but it will change – into something even more beautiful as we let love into our lives. You are lucky in this way. The one who had me for 4 years, all to herself. You must cherish this, too. And I know you will help your little brother know his mommy and daddy the way you know us.

I love you, Francesca. My world is so much better with you in it. We will embark on this new adventure together, hand in hand always.

*No one else will ever know the strength of my love for you. After all, you’re the first to know what my heart sounds like from the inside.* – Unknown