It was one year ago today when you woke me up at 3 am to let me know you were ready to meet me face to face.  I had looked forward to this day for months, my baby girl was on her way.  Things happened quickly. Within an hour of waking up my contractions were a strong and steady 5 minutes apart.  We arrived at the hospital and admitted by 6 am.  You seemed to be coming quickly and I was thankful!  By 8 am I decided I was not going to try and be Superwoman, I would really like an epidural to help with all the pain your arrival was bringing me.  Everything was progressing normally and safely, but by 2 pm my doctor said that I had not progressed in over 6 hours and you were not far enough down.  He recommended another C-Section.  The surgery was not a pleasant experience, but hearing your first beautiful cry was breathtaking.  I was so glad you had arrived safely and I couldn’t wait to hold you in my arms.  You were born at 2:07 pm, weighing 8 lbs and 15 oz.  and 20 3/4 inches long.  The hospital was extremely busy that day, there were other young babes coming to meet their moms and dads, so we did not get the special recovery room where you could be with me.  I had to wait a couple of hours to hold you the first time but it was so worth the wait.  Our hospital stay was pleasant, the food edible, and the nurses were wonderful.  We had a favorite nurse that worked the night shift that took especially good care of us and made sure we got as much rest as possible.   Your grandparents, Aunt Hollie, and brother all came to see you at the hospital along with some of our church family.  We brought you home just a few short days after you were born. 

You were so wide awake and alert, even from those first few days.  Here you are in your car seat for the first time and ready to go home!

This is your first time in your own bed.  (wearing your “I’m the little sister onsie =)

Here you are at 2 months old with your amazing dark eyes and kissable cheeks! (Your other nick-name is “Sweetcheeks” ;)

You have the most beautiful smile in the world and it makes my day brighter!  Here you are at about 4 months. 

You absolutely LOVE to play!  All the toys we had from your brother were “boy” colors.  I was so excited to buy you a few “girlie” toys, including your favorite pink blocks.

You were crawling by 8 months and pulling up soon after.  I had to take your mobile down soon after this picture was taken to keep you from tearing it up! You were trying to use it to pull yourself up.

You are absolutely precious to us.  You are a beautiful gift and I pray that we will raise you to love God with all your heart and seek after Him.  Some days I whisper in your ear that you are precious and loved.  That you are God’s treasure and that He rejoices over you with singing.  I pray that these truths take deep root in your heart and that you will grow up to become a strong woman that knows you are loved by your Heavenly Father and your earthly family.

Your joy and smiles are contagious.  When I walk into your room in the morning I am greeted by your beautiful smile and amazing hugs.  You are such a snuggler!!  I love how you wrap your arms around me neck and lay your head down on my shoulder and squeeze.  I love your giggles when I hug you back.  It’s one of my favorite parts of the day :-)

You are becoming such a ham!  Your personality is really beginning to come out.  

I am amazed at how much you have grown in just one short year.  You are becoming so independent.  You have eight teeth, are learning how to walk, and putting EVERYTHING in your mouth.  You have already moved on to a sippy cup and eating all table foods now.  You had your first sandwich yesterday!! You are saying Mama and Dada when your daddy or I walk into the room.  You are waving and saying Bye-Bye.  You have an adorable giggle that makes my heart feel like it is going to burst each time I hear it. 

You brother absolutely adores you and can’t go to sleep until he has given you a hug and kiss.  I pray you two will always be close.  You love to wrestle with each other and I wouldn’t be surprised if you win a round or two.  You make our family complete.  I love baby girl and I thank God everyday that He has give you to us to raise.

Happy 1st Birthday Snugglebug!