After 3 Boys, We Gave Up Our Dream of a Daughter—Then My Husband Called Me to the Hospital and Said, “There’s a Baby Here”

For years, I’d imagined what it would feel like to finally have a daughter.

I thought there would be something mystical about it.

A missing piece clicking into place.

But the actual feeling was quieter.

Responsibility.

Relief.

Love.

And grief for the woman who should have been standing there too.