giving

in seven years,

she has given me:

cracked, bloody nipples

sleepless nights

endless worry

terrific frights

and the unwanted title -

"Mother of a Medically Complex Child"

but, also:

her first smile

her first giggle

countless drunken, happy, drippy breastmilky grins

an understanding of what bravery truly is

"oh my garlic and muffins"

good-night kisses

and the most definitely wanted title -

"Mumma"

Happy seventh birthday to my medically-complex, challenging, spirited, funny, brave, amazing girl. I only hope I can give her as much as she has given me.