FOUR

Lilly,

Four years ago was one of the most precious moments of my life.  This morning at 10:12 you turned 4.  I can't hardly believe how much you have changed since that precious day!  I remember that Wednesday morning, like it was yesterday!  I went to the hospital at 6:30am and was 4 cm dialated.  They started me on pitocin at about 7:30 am.  The Dr. broke my water at 9:40 am, and to our amazement, you, Miss Lilly made your debut in a very quick, not to mention pretty easy delivery at 10:12 am.  I have to say 32 minutes isn't too bad for a first baby!  I will never forget how I felt at that moment...the moment of your first cry.  I too (along with Daddy) cried, in amazement and in joy that we had just brought such a precious, beautiful human being into this world, knowing you were 50% of me and 50% of your Daddy!  I love to relive that moment sometimes...the sound of your cry, the way you smelled, the way your soft skin felt against mine, and the way that at that moment your heart was set to beat with mine.  I've yearned for you my ENTIRE LIFE, and in that moment - that precious moment - I became the Mommy of a beautiful life, your life, that is so important to me, I can't even put it into words.  My life seems so much more important now.  Not because of me, but because I want to be here for you, always.  My heart aches when yours does and smiles when yours does.  I get so much fulfillment as I watch you grow more and more everyday.  Lilly, I always want you to be happy, and  there is not ever a way I can tell you just how much I love you...but I will show you.  I will show you each and every beautiful day just how much I love you.

Lilly, these past four years of watching you, with so much spirit, grow and learn so much has been a blessing.

Lilly, you are compassionate, spirited, loving, silly, witty, caring, kind,eager to take life in, and you little one, are so independent and like to find your own way.  I learn so much from loving you, and that my baby girl is such a gift!

(playing dress up)

You are my sunny little smile and every dream I ever had my entire life about the little girl I wanted someday just can't compare to the greatness you have turned out to be!

I didn't ever think I could love so deep.
You are heaven, my little one, my little FOUR year old.

(Lilly's new favorite necklace from Aunt Jody)

I love you so much,

Mommy