Abby

Last but certainly not least. I think I left her to last just because her blog will be so easy to write. Sunshine. That's what Abby reminds me of, that's what she has always reminded me of. From the very first time she smiled at me to this very day when she smiles it's like looking into the bright sun after a long dark night. It's warm, comforting and uplifting. I love this child.

Abby is the epitome of love, selflessness and kindness. She wants everyone to feel loved and happily gives it to anyone and everyone around her. I watch her with her friends, siblings and even my friends and there it is. Her smile, her love and her acceptance. Last summer Jon and I took the kids to Las Vegas for the first time as a family. My sisters had only met Kenna, Megan and Joe up to that point and I decided that those days were over. They needed to meet all of my children and I wanted my kids to meet their Aunts, Uncles and cousins. This meeting went really well, so well in fact that I don't even recall the details of the first time they met each other. I think we all just sort of blended together like we had spent every Sunday together for years. We meshed and beautifully so. But non more so than Abby. She just fit right in. It was and has remained easy for the words "Aunt Lisa, Lori and Tracy" to flow from her mouth, and she doesn't even have to try. I think my sisters kind of like it too...

She is smart, sharp as a whip and quick on her feet. She loves to help, most days, and is quick to jump in with a little one when I need her help. Now, she does have her imperfections, just like the rest of us, but what makes her so amazing is that after a good tantrum, a good crying spell or a major fit her smile wipes everything else away and she is back. Right where her soul is comfy...with happiness, and contentment.

I love Abby and her role in this family is apparent. She will be the glue that will hold the kids together long after Jon and I are gone. I don't think this is a role that I have imposed on her, it's just natural for her to be this way. She is now, and will be forever. All of my kids have a place in this family, they all fit in in some way or another. I can see what that is for some of them, and with some of them I think their role has yet to be revealed. Abby's is clear.

Last week she received the award at school for becoming a better student and citizen. Her principal read what her teacher nominated her for and the words "She is a born leader in the classroom" did not surprise me. She is a born leader no matter where she is. Home, school and church. She is a shining star and fits so comfortably in that role. She is my sun. My sun on a cloudy day, when my own problems are too big for me, she can make me feel better with her warm hug and soft words. I love you Abby. You amaze me...