Eight years old

Hard to believe that today you are eight.

I remember so clearly first finding out I was pregnant with you. It was Christmas time. Your Dad and I lived in Missouri but were at Nana and Papa's house for the holidays. Dad and I realized that I was pregnant on a day where I was spending the whole day with Nana and he with Papa. I had every intention of telling Nana during the day but somehow just couldn't. So, when we were all together again we told them both. They were overjoyed!

I remember so clearly the day you were born. I was having mild contractions all morning and into the afternoon. It was around 2:00 in the afternoon when we finally called the doctor because the contractions were becoming regular and about 5 minutes apart. And, they were starting to hurt. We headed to the hospital. But, I made your Dad stop at a McDonald's. Not because I was hungry (I had other things on my mind!) but because I knew he had not eaten lunch and you Dad is worthless when hungry! I waited in the car while he ran inside McDonald's to get something to eat. Sure seemed like it took him forever.

I remember so clearly walking the halls of the hospital and then stopping to rock back-and-forth in your Dad's arms when a contraction hit.

I remember so clearly the instant you were born and the doctor said, "It's a girl!" Oh what a magical moment! I looked at your wrinkly, pink skin and cried and cried. I held you so close and tight. Absolute love at first sight. Soon afterward the nurses weighed and measured and bathed and dressed you. Dad stayed tight by your side. We cried with such overwhelming joy.

Then we ordered pizza.

Well, I WAS hungry!

I remember so clearly bringing you home. Is this car seat working right? Honey, slow down! Your driving too fast! I remember so clearly bringing you inside our home for the first time. It was very quiet. Very hot. Very still. What do we do now??

Eight years have passed since those quiet and still first moments. What life changing, amazing, magical, blessed years they have been. I have watched you become a walking, talking, thinking, empathetic, funny, smart, clever and kind young girl. I feel so incredibly lucky to be your mother. I love you to absolute pieces my sweet girl! ABSOLUTE PIECES!!

Happy 8th Birthday.
Mom