This time last year...

My baby turns one on Saturday. I cannot believe it is here already. Everyone always told me that time flies by, especially with little ones, but I don't think you can actually understand that until it is your little one.



All week, I have been reminiscing of where I was this time last year, what I was doing to prepare for the birth of my first child. Those of you who know me, know that I have a terrible memory. Absolutely terrible. I was so worried that I would forget this time last year. And yet, as I have thought about it, I'm amazed at how much I remember.



I remember crying through church on Sunday, cramping so strong and intense, but determined to watch my sister get to "walk" at least one graduation ceremony.



I remember cramping during bible study on Monday night, thinking "if this is not it, I'm in trouble."



I remember waking up Tuesday morning, feeling nothing. No cramps, no contractions. The calm before the storm.



I remember practicing my speech to Jesse in the waiting room of my OB's office Wednesday morning, begging her to strip my membranes and induce. I was so ready to have the baby.



I remember the sudden pain I had as she was "checking" me, and then laughing as she told me she stripped my membranes- I never had to ask!



I remember doubting her, as we walked out of the office and she called out, "I'll see you two either tonight or tomorrow!"



I remember going up to the YMCA and walking around with Lauren, determined to get some contractions started.



I remember when the contractions started to build.



I remember going to see Chase and Rebecca, deciding that we could not wait until tomorrow to pick up the chair we were going to use for my nursing chair.



I remember walking around Walmart, trying hard not to double-over in pain.



I remember Jesse getting ready for bed, asking me, "are you sure you don't want to go?" and me replying, "I refuse to be sent home." So, he went to bed. I showered. I cleaned. I could not sleep.



I remember waking him up around 12:00 saying, "I apologize in advance if we get sent home...let's go."



I remember us calmly heading to the hospital.



I remember the nurse hooking me up to the fetal monitor, and feeling so nervous. I did not want to be one of those patients that thinks this pain is so strong, when in fact, it is not.



I remember her smiling, saying, "we're going to have a baby tonight!" (I'm tearing up, as I write this...)



I remember the look on Jesse's face, as he helped me change into the nightgown and get into bed. Such a tender moment for us.



I remember calling family...and having them show up right away- despite the fact it was 1:00 in the morning!



I remember throwing up, as Jesse ran to grab a bag.



I remember receiving the epidural: God's gift to women. =)



I remember trying to sleep, and being so excited I could hardly stand it.



I remember Dr.Norton walking in around 7:30am, saying, "I told you I would see you!"



I remember her breaking my water, and saying we would have a baby soon.



I remember when the nurses casually decided it was time to push. I honestly thought we were just practicing.



I remember the smile on Jesse's face as he held my leg, and counted along with the nurse.



I remember the feeling of the room change very quickly, as numerous nurses arrived with Dr. Norton, and new tables and equipment seemed to appear out of no where.



I remember hearing the doctor say, "our little girl is in trouble," and watched as the nurses nodded.



I remember Jesse squeezing my hand, reassuring me that it was okay- despite the fact he looked as nervous as I felt.



I remember pushing maybe twice, and then all of sudden having them lay a beautiful, screaming baby girl on my chest.



An in that moment, I changed. My heart was forever changed. I never knew I could love someone like that. I did not know that love I have for my husband would change, as he too evolved into "Da-da."



This time last year was incredibly emotional. It was a week I will never forget. However, I must admit. I'm happier where we are this year. This year, I have a sweet, walking, jabbering little girl, with pigtails and front teeth. This year, I sleep more than I did last year. This year, I get big bear hugs all day long from my daughter who loves me. This year we get to celebrate what a fun year it has been. And celebrate we will!! Just wait...