Happy Birthday

Happy birthday baby -- I won't ever forget the day you were born. I remember how you came out kicking and crying and how grateful I was to be able to hold your tiny body on my tummy for just a minute before the NICU team had to whisk you away. I remember how scared we were for you. I remember how hard it was to drive home from the hospital without you -- how difficult it was to leave you there day after day. I remember how scared I used to be to call up the NICU to check on you, because I was afraid that the news wouldn't be good. I remember how phone calls late in the evening used to send a bolt of fear through my heart.

It seems like just yesterday that you were that frighteningly tiny baby in the isolette. Now you're 20 pounds of constant activity - chubby cheeks, chubby legs, and a smile that lights up my day. You are finally getting a chance to do all those normal baby things -- open your presents, blow out your candles, eat your birthday cake.

We made it. 365 days and we've come full circle. I'll never forget your beginnings, but I'm starting to feel like I can begin to move past it. Your life is a gift and I hope you always remember that. So many people fought so hard to give it to you, your little self included, so use it well. I know you will.

Happy birthday baby -- I love you.