Today is your first birthday. How did we get here? A year ago today they were laying you on my chest after 30+ hours of labor. I remember looking at you and trying to wrap my brain around the fact that you were mine. You were the gentle flutters and not so gentle kicks that I had felt move inside me for 9 months. I had dreamed of what you would look like, knowing that once I finally got to see you I would never forget your face. Your dad cried and said, "that's our baby girl" when we heard you, even before we saw you! I wasn't overcome with emotion, love, or fear. I just stared at you.
You've changed a lot around here. Mostly good, of course. You have made your dad's tender heart even more tender, I think. He calls you "kiddo" and "sweetie" and other names that I had never heard come out of his mouth before you. I guess that's just what babies do to dads. :)
And for me, well settle in because you've changed a whole lot about me. I've come out the other side as a new person completely. You have made me more compassionate, Emery. I love so much better because of you. You've also made me realize how amazing moms truly are. I've left encouraging notes to moms on tables at restaurants, high-fived moms in Target, and even given my phone number to a complete stranger because I found her crying trying to register for her baby shower. I often tell people that you "turned my world upside down" and I mean it in the best way. My friendships have taken a beating this year, especially the first five months of your life... I couldn't tell up from down let alone return a text message. But there are some relationships that have deepened this year and for that I am so, so thankful.
I've heard a lot of "you won't be able to remember life before her" since you've been around, but your Aunt Heather and I decided that's a bunch of bologna because let me tell you, I remember those long afternoon naps and days where I operated on MY schedule and not a tiny little person's. ;) So, yes, I remember life before you, but I'll tell you what: I would never trade it.
I thank God that he entrusted you to your dad and me. Our hope and prayer is that you grow up seeking Him and walking with Him for your whole life. We love you baby girl, Happy Birthday!
I've heard a lot of "you won't be able to remember life before her" since you've been around, but your Aunt Heather and I decided that's a bunch of bologna because let me tell you, I remember those long afternoon naps and days where I operated on MY schedule and not a tiny little person's. ;) So, yes, I remember life before you, but I'll tell you what: I would never trade it.
I thank God that he entrusted you to your dad and me. Our hope and prayer is that you grow up seeking Him and walking with Him for your whole life. We love you baby girl, Happy Birthday!
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