Annabelle,
I have had the unbelievable privilege of watching you grow… Ten years have come… and I’ve collected memories from every second with you. I remember the first time I saw you…chubby…. red hair… blue eyes…. 8 lbs… In an instant, I knew that the idea of having a little girl was exactly as I had feared and I’ve been wrapped around your finger since your first day….. The instant you were here…in my life… I became a different creature… something other than a man…but your Dad…. Now, my heart whispers your name… and I have a love for you that will require a lifetime to share…to give… 
We’ve traveled down many…many paths… I’ve listened to your heart… heard your words… watched your steps… I am so very proud of you… Proud of the way you’ve grown. I’ve learned so much… I understand that you have an enormous heart… 
….and I’m excited to see where it leads you…. I will keep a tight hold of your little hand, Neshume-le…. and I see the divine spark in you… your blue eyes give you away…..
I have spent so many nights sitting by your bed….prayed that the angels cover you… I must confess, that I believe you to be one of them… an angel… This weekend your family gathered….. ’round you… celebrated your 10 yrs… Annabelle’s Decade… My little girl….. I hope you enjoyed your birthday… I love you. Of all that I am…or ever wanted to be… my favorite title is “Dad.” If I ever do anything well…. to the best of my ability…. I hope it is being your Dad…
