To our Claire Bear

Sweet Claire,
You are now only days old and yet we already can't imagine our family without you in it.  We loved you before we ever met you, but the moment we laid our eyes on you that love deepened as it will with each passing day.  Before time even began, God planned that you would be a special part of this family, and we are so glad that he did!!

I've waited a long time to be called "auntie Meg".  It's a great name don't you think?  Maybe so great that you will learn it quickly and say it often!  ;)

Your daddy has always been one of my most favorite people in this world.  We have shared secrets since we were little and I have always, always been able to count on him.  He's always been on my team, usually as my one of my biggest fans.  He is selfless, generous and loving. He has the tenderest of hearts and will always put your needs before his own.  I love him more than words can express, and that's why I knew I would love you but I honestly wasn't prepared for just how much I would adore you!  Watching my brother become a daddy has been so exciting.  I am beyond proud of him.  And guess what my dear, that's your daddy...he loves you with his whole heart, he will always, always be on your team as your biggest fan and you can feel safe to share your deepest secrets with him...trust me, I know~

Your mommy is quite possibly the sweetest woman to walk the earth, no joke, the woman is pure beauty from the inside out.  I instantly loved her the day your daddy introduced us (and trust me, when it came to a gal for your daddy, Auntie Meg was a tough critic).  We just instantly connected, like family should, and I have considered her that from that day on.  In fact, on the day you were born without even thinking about it I gleefully told my friends at work "my sister is in labor".  I guess some would argue that she is my sister by law, but I say she is my sister by love~
She is always one of the prettiest in a room and yet the first one to give away a compliment.  Her laugh is absolutely contagious.  She knows just how to make everyone in her life feel important and so very loved.  I will never forget the moment I walked into the delivery room and watched while she labored through a painful contraction.  She then opened her eyes, grabbed my hand and whispered "I'm so glad you are here".  Guess what doll that's your mommy, the one who will always, always make you feel wanted, needed and oh so very loved... trust me, I know~

Right from the beginning I (along with everyone else) was captured by you and was gloriously grateful that God chose us when he breathed life into you.  Your entire family will forever shower you with unconditional love.  We can't wait to spend a lifetime getting to know all of who you are.  Whoever you become, wherever you land, however you choose to get there, one thing will always be the same...we love you Claire bear!