October 29, 2008

This time last year

This is what I looked like.


We had checked into the hospital for an induction (ten days past my due date), early in the morning.

I was hooked up to what seemed like a million machines (but really it was an IV, contraction monitor, baby monitor, and blood pressure cuff - which seems like nothing now).

I was reading and Ryan was trying to watch Heroes on TV. After eight hours of pitocin I was just starting to feel contractions.

The next twelve hours were very intense as the contractions really hit. I'll spare you all of the details, but at the end of it we met baby Madeleine.

She was perfect.

It's true what they say about your life never being the same after having a child. it's not just the sleepless nights and constant diaper changes, but the fact that there is a little creature that relies on you so totally and completely. It's about putting someone else first. And the rewards for all of this are much greater than the effort that it takes to get there. A first smile, a first laugh, hearing her say, "mama." Seeing the smile on her face when Ryan gets home at night.



This was her Halloween picture last year, one day old:
And this year's:


Happy First Birthday!

Cooking with Daddy

5 comments:

Hope said...

What a difference a year makes. Time flies so fast, I'm scared to blink. you are doing so well with all that's been dropped on you. I really hope and pray the next year is easier on your entire family.

Anonymous said...

Yay! Happy Birthday Mad!! I can't believe she's a year old already. Time seriously just flies by. I hope you all rejoice and celebrate this past year of Mad's life and focus on what a wonderful gift she is, and amazing little person she is becoming each and every day. Much love to you all!

Ericka said...

Happy, Happy Birthday
You're such a rockin' babe
I wish you happy birthday
'Cause today's your special day...

-=-

sending all my snuggles and love to a very special little person. I'll whap Holley with my flip flop in your honor today.

Danelle said...

Happy Birthday Madi!!!! I can't believe it has been a year. Here is to a easier year ahead for you and all around you!!!

Lots of hugs and kisses! See you next weekend for your party!

jocelyn said...

Happy birthday little girl! And, Amber, you are absolutely right about the mothering / parenting bit. It's about growth and challenge and in the best ways possible. And yes, the rewards are well worth getting spit up on, never sleeping, and even temper tantrums.

Have a great day, all of you.