Dear Samantha,

September 17th, 2009

My Dearest Samantha,

Today you are one year old. This time one year ago your Dada and I were admitted to the hospital just waiting for the OR to open up so Mommy could deliver you. We were nervous, excited to finally meet you even if it was early, and scared to death.

We never found out if you were a boy or girl but we both knew somehow you were going to be a girl. Your Dada picked out your name long before you were ever born. Samantha Jayne.

You might think that operating rooms are very serious business. I was surprised both times that I delivered to find that there was music playing in the background and much conversation about where the doctors had been on vacation and the latest conference they would be attending. I will forever remember that the moment you were born there was a Kid Rock song playing the background- every single time I hear it on the radio I just know it is Sam's song.

I was so happy to hear your healthy cry that I cried too. I didn't even get to find out if you were a boy or girl until they were just about to take you off to the NICU. I guess these days everyone finds out what they are having ahead of time and need no reaffirmation when the baby actually gets here. We just loved being surprised.

Sam, it was the hardest thing Mommy has ever done to leave you in the NICU. I hope you never, ever have to go through that. All I wanted to do was hold you and snuggle you but the rules were the rules and you were so tiny that we had to let you get your rest.

For coming six weeks early you were pretty healthy. Five pounds three ounces! You made Mommy so proud. You are our little blondie. Did you know that both Mommy and Dada had blonde hair when we were little babies?

This past year you have amazed us with your will and determination. For the first few months you were developmentally about six weeks behind- which was to be expected. The pediatrician warned us to expect that until at least your first birthday. But just as you decided to make your grand entrance on your own time you also have met all of your milestones on your own time. Right around five and a half months old (technically four months) you caught right up with the regular babies and haven't looked back!

You started walking about a week ago. You walk best when you aren't putting any thought into it. As soon as you realize you are walking though you quickly bend back down to your knees and crawl.

You have the cutest giggle I have ever heard. Your sister makes you laugh so hard- no one else can get you to laugh like Hayley can. And the two of you give each other hugs and kisses all the time. (when you aren't hitting each other). It makes Mommy's heart sing to see the love that you share.

We have been so very blessed to have you in our lives. You are so healthy, and so loved. I just know that you are going to grow into a beautiful young woman one day and as much as I want you to stay my little baby forever I also cannot wait to see the beautiful young woman that you will become.

Happy First Birthday baby girl!

Love, Mommy

Comments

[Mrs M]

I can't believe I missed Sam's 1st birthday. Please E mail me your new address. I miss you Jenn!