“No from your Daddy.” Bette said pulling Jess into her lap.

“Mom I don’t understand.” Jess said quietly.

“Your Daddy put this present away for you for when I had another baby.” Bette said holding very close and tight. She wiped the tears from her face.

“What is it?” Jess asked.

“I don’t know why don’t you open it and see.” Bette said. Jess slowly and carefully opened it. It was a 8×10 painting with a note.

“Mom I can’t read his hand writing. Will you read it to me.” Jess said handing the note to Bette.

“Sure.” She sniffled and wiped some more tears off of her cheeks.

Dear Princess,

If you are reading this or having it read to you it means that I am in heaven watching over you. It also means that mommy is having another baby. I painted this the day she told me that I was going to be a Daddy. You were the greatest gift that I ever got. I have so many dreams for you, but the biggest one is that you are Happy. I love you more than anything in the world and I know that mommy feels the same way. When the new baby is born love them and protect them because you are their big sister and the only one that they will have. Be their friend and teach them how to work mommy because Lord knows they are going to need to know that.

I want so much for your future. My advise to you, Be yourself and don’t let anyone tell you that the person you are is wrong. Be kind to others and they will be kind to you. Don’t be afraid to cause a little trouble and have fun. Make your dreams come true. Always remember that I am watching over you and will see you again someday.

Love Daddy

’91

Tears ran down Bette’s face. Jess turned and looked at her.

“Don’t cry mommy. Daddy wouldn’t want you to cry.” Jess said rubbing Bette’s cheek. Tina sat down next to them crying too. She wrapped her arms around them.

“I can’t breathe. Uncle Chris help me.” Jess said Chris reached out and pulled Jess from between Bette and Tina. “Don’t you start crying too.” Jess said as Chris put her on the floor. Jess picked up the painting. “Mom can we hang this in my new room when it gets finished.”