Happy Birthday!

Last week my oldest turned 14. It is hard to believe that time has flew so quickly. She was my first, my unexpected surprise. I, who had never been around any babies, who thought that, " Yes, I would have children someday, like when I was in my 30's." But that is not the way things worked out and I am grateful that she came into my life when she did. I was in college and working when I was pregnant with her so the pregnancy pretty much flew by. I remember when I went into labor. I have never had such back pain as what I had then. It felt like she was trying to come out the bottom of my spine! After many hours of labor and 2 hours of pushing she finally came into the world via vacuum and forceps. She was such a beautiful baby. I was totally unprepared for the intense love I felt for her. I remember crying my eyes out when I had to leave her to go back to work. I never wanted to leave her. She was a good baby. She would have been a better one if I had ignored the doctor and listened to my own instincts and fed her on demand. It's hard being the first. Both the child and parents are learning the ropes together. So many firsts to go through. First steps, first tooth, first day of school... It seems like I was always so excited and couldn't wait for all those "firsts". It did not take long to realize that along with those "firsts" came "lasts". Now looking back I remember the last time she played with dolls, the last time she would ask me to read to her, the last time she would jump up in my arms, the last boo boo to be kissed. All these have come and gone. It seems like these "lasts" sneak up on you. Now I look at her and see she has grown into a wonderful young lady. These teen years can be tough and I pray often for her daily. I pray that the Lord gives her wisdom and discernment and strength as she goes about her day. She is still young and sometimes I feel like I am sending my sheep out among a pack of wolves. I know that she has a Great Shepard watching over her though. Her papa and I love her very much and we know that we will make it through these years with many smiles and some tears. We will see more "firsts" and also remember some more "lasts". Through it all we hold each other and give the unconditional love that we all need. We love you "little bear"! < >

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Here is my birthday girl with her "thoughtful" look. Don't pay any attention to the date. We put new batteries in the camera and forgot to set the date. < >



< > Above is a picture of her on her birthday. She was a good sport considering her 2yr old sister and completely destroyed her cake. :)