ONE!

Can you believe this little girl is ONE year old today?!! I really can't. All week long we have been reminiscing about what we were doing a year ago from whatever moment we can recall...

July 5th...watching fireworks at the lake and being soooo uncomfortable
July 7th...going to the hospital and then going back home because they said, "Sorry, no baby today."
July 8th...going to Bed, Bath & Beyond and deciding today was the day and we needed to go home
July 9th, 2:57 am...came a tiny little, beautiful, 7-pound, healthy, pink ball of something special.




Madeleine,

Words can't describe what this year has meant to me. You bring out the best in me and help me to see how I can change the not-so-good parts about me as well. Your birthday is the first of many milestones. I think it helps us all to remember that God is in control and as the years go by quickly, He will continue to allow you to flourish my sweet girl. You are an absolute joy to be around and everyone tells us (A LOT) how cute you are. We say we get a little tired of it, but how could anyone ever get tired of hearing how adorable you are my little one! You have your daddy's nose and eyes and you have my lips, dimples, and a few curls.

Maddy Bug...that's what we started calling you right after you were born....you love to "unpack" everything you see from every box, drawer, cabinet, bag, purse, etc.



I love that you love me when my hair is a mess and I don't have on cute clothes, or makeup, or I haven't showered in a while. You will eat anything we put in front of you...even mushrooms!



You are sassy and will shake your head "no" repeatedly when you do not want something. We starting teaching you "yes" today to make sure you knew you had another option besides, "no."



You always smile when we pick you up out of your crib in the morning and will "talk" to pictures of when you were a "baby" at your door. When you rest your head on my shoulder, I feel so confident in my abilities to be a good mother.



So little one, thank you for loving me and for simply being you. You are a treasure to me, your daddy, and a whole lot of other people....and especially your Father in heaven. He loves you the most sweetie and He is really excited for your birthday today. You made it kid....a year! Wow. I still can't believe it. I hope you have an amazing rest of your birthday sweet girl. Now...let's eat some cake...and I will cut it, of course! (Don't worry, I'll teach you that soon enough.)

I love you,
Mommy