Happy Birthday Party

Well, I am finally getting around to the Cutie's birthday post.  Her birthday was more than 2 weeks ago, but we just wrapped up the celebrations this weekend.  As Dirty Jobs told the bff on Saturday, "Happy Birthday party".

Dear Cutie,

That Christmas of 2005 when I waddled around with you still inside of me, we knew your days in there were numbered.  Oh, how I loved feeling you inside of me.  I was not in a hurry to get you out of there.  And, frankly, you seemed pretty content to be there as well.  I kept asking the doctors to let you stay a few more days and wait for natural labor.  Finally, Dr. S drew the line and said it was time.  They scheduled me for an induction.  19 long hours later, we finally got to meet you, face to face.  We struggled through those first weeks and I was so thankful when they finally determined your food allergies.  Once we got you onto that pricey hypo-allergenic formula, you (and I) were so much happier.  You were such a smiley baby!

When you were 4 months old, your daddy left for some training in another state.  It was hard because we missed him, but I was so thankful to have your smiles and laughter to fill my days.  I was able to document your first year for him with pictures and emails and texts so he wouldn't miss out on any of your milestones.  Then, we spent our first Christmas together as a family right before Daddy left for Afghanistan.  We made so many memories and he had a blast catching up on who you were becoming.  The year that Daddy was overseas, was one of the most difficult of my life.  Mommy lost her mind a little bit and the house got pretty messy.  But, we had lots of laughs.  You brought so much joy to my days and I am so grateful that you were with me during that time.  And though you may never remember it, it will always remain a special time for me with you.

I love the special relationship we have based on the fact that it was just the two of us for most of your first two years.  But, I have loved watching you and Daddy work out that relationship.  The first little while was tough.  I couldn't be out of your sight.  You wouldn't let him hold you or take over any of "my" duties.  But now, it was all worth it.  Finding you two in the garage fiddling with tools or building something never fails to make me smile.  Watching the physical play that you and Daddy engage in usually makes me laugh.  No matter how tired he is, he can't resist you when you say, "You can't get me," and take off running through the house.  The giggles are precious.  You love your time with daddy and you start to get cranky if too many days go by without getting that special one on one time with him.  Your dates together are always good for both of you.  

Your third, was the last birthday we had together as a family of three.  Next year, your brother or sister will be here to share it with you.  This next year will be full of changes.  But, as your life has already shown us, I think you will transition beautifully.  You have already taught your mommy and daddy so much.  

Thank you for being the one who taught me how to be a mother.  Thank you for the patience and grace you continue to show me as I walk through each and every stage of your life.  And thank you for becoming the beautiful little girl that God has created you to be.  Your love inspires me to be a better wife and mom and a better woman.

I love you, baby girl.