When Patrick died our family became very small. Both of us were only children so there were not lots of aunts, uncles and cousins running around. It was just the three of us.

We have been through a lot in the time since Patrick died. As a family we've had our ups and downs. So far we have always been able to pull together when we needed to.

Right now there is a strain in my relationship with my son. He is going through some stuff right now. Though I can appreciate what he is going through, I can not accept or condone the way he is going about it.

As a mother you love your children unconditionally. It makes no difference if you give birth to them or not. You raise them. You instill in them the values and morals that you want to pass on. You comfort them when they are hurt and you encourage them when they strive for their dreams. That is part of being a mother.

I love my son with all my heart. Unfortunately, I do not like him very much right now. I especially dislike the way he has put people in very uncomfortable situations.

This weekend is Serif's 3rd birthday. This is a very special time for her. She is so excited about this birthday. This is going to be her day. I don't want anything to spoil it for her. She is totally innocent in all these adult goings on. All she knows is that she loves her family more than anything. She adores her uncle and I thought he adored her. I hope and pray that he makes the right decision. This is one decision he will have to live with for the rest of his life.