Honoring my sweet Angel Grace and her beautiful Smile.

I have had a hard time taking the strength to write. On March 29th, my beautiful Grace would have been 10 years old. I did not want to get out of bed that morning but my little Emma gave me that push. Then before I knew it my doorbell rang and my sister's, nephews and parents were all giving me the strength to get through this heart wrenching day. We went to the cemetery and sang to her. Emma was so excited to celebrate her sister's birthday. I can't put into words how deeply I miss her voice, her smell and the touch of her hair. I know we will be together someday but I can't help but dream of that moment when I can hug and kiss my angel. I did put some decorations up because Emma knows her sister and wants to celebrate her birthday as well. I just miss the excitement on Grace's face seeing the house full of all her favorite colors and balloons and whatever theme was that year! Just so you know, discussion would start months before on what cake Aunt Kathy would make nd where it would take place. Aunt Kathy's cake would always be the highlite! I dream of Grace dancing in heaven and eating lots of cake! My idea of heaven is one of ultimate peace. We have been to Disney many times with Grace. It was one of the only places where she felt truly happy. Grace knew that their were no doctors, hospitals. Grace knew mommy and daddy would be with her and that we were not on any time constraints. Disney made her smile. I take those memories and hold them close. I picture Grace in heaven smiling like she did in Disney. I pictur Michael's face each time we were waiting to go on the Toystory ride. Smiles are priceless!! For awhile I felt like I was not doing much to keep Grace's memory alive. So I prayed to her and asked what I should be doing to allow others to experience those incredible smiles. So last month on her 10th birthday we launched the Smile Fund with Debra. Grace's MooPa, Mee-Ma, Aunt Kathy, Uncle Dylan, Aunt Monkey, Nurse and Friend Donna and wonderful friends Denise and Mat have all joined in this wonderful cause. I can't thank them enough for helping bring smiles to other EB kids in honor of Grace. As EB families know this disease effects the whole family and support group. Everyone feels helpless and frustrated. Watching someone you love in constant pain and itch is awful. Grace's support system was incredible. These people would put their needs on hold and show uh compassion and true love to Grace and to Michael and I. I am blessed because these people have also helped me face each day when most days I want to just crumble. These gifts were there when Michael passed away in September and once again I felt my heart break away. How do you thank someone who gives you more than you could ever give them? I can't wait until we grant our first wish in May. I will do it all for my sweet Angel Grace. Go th Debra's website for more information on this wonderful fund! Who wouldn't want to make a child smile. Life is sure filled with so many ups and downs. But I know that this life is just a journey and all the pin is temporary. Someday their will be no pain, no more questions and forever will be a reality. So until the I enjoy the little things. My little Emma growing up to be a beautiful girl. Loving clothes and making the world laugh. She is my miracle and I enjoy and love being her mommy. I live to make her proud of me and that is my ultimate goal. It doesn't matter what job I do or what I wear it's the people I help or make a difference for that will be my passion. Grace's bravery and strength was outstanding. She showed love even though she was in pain. I can do the same. So when more struggles approach I shall take the attitude that it is what it is! Thank you to all who have reached out to me an lended your support. I do appreciate it. For thoses who have walked away for one reason or another, I wish you never experience the pain I have had. I wish you could see life for what it is PRECIOUS! I will always love Grace and Michael and they are forever apart of Emma and I. I will always celebrate them and cherish their memories no matter how painful this may be.