A Year Ago Today....

I was headed to the hospital in labor.  Wasn't sure if something was wrong or it was actual labor, because I was still 3 weeks away from my EDD.  I was admitted around 9 AM, and 5 cm dilated.  Nervous as heck.  Tired from being up all night with contractions.  But excited as ever.  I was finally going to meet the little person who was living inside of me, moving around, kicking me and giving me heartburn. :)  1:30 PM I was given my epidural, and that slowed EVERYTHING down...but I was still progressing, which was great!  At 9:10 PM I could start pushing...and I did.  I pushed, and pushed...cried, grunted and pushed some more...and finally....

There she was.  Be still my heart.  All 6 lbs. 3 oz., 19 in. of her.  Full head of jet black hair (which she would soon lose, and then grow back light brown hair...).  My daughter, Avery Janice Marie.  The most beautiful thing I have ever seen. 

Even though I was too exhausted to cry from happiness, my heart was (and still is) overflowing with contentment and joy.  This is the moment my whole life was leading up to.  My life had truly begun at that exact moment.  I am no longer "just Hollie"- I am "Hollie, Avery's Mother".  And that's the best title in the whole world.

One year later, here she stands...looking at me with her beautiful blue eyes on her 1st birthday.  And I feel even more overjoyed and happy than I did one year ago.  She's my world.  My love.  My heart.  And I am so happy that she's mine. 

I love you, Punkin!  Always.  xoxo
Happy First Birthday, baby girl!!