9 Years Ago Today....

Nine years ago at this very minute, my husband and I were on a date. After dinner at Applebee's, we saw a movie, which I still love to this day (Runaway Bride) and then went home. Sounds rather typical, right? Well it was anything but!

As we ate dinner that night, my mind would not, could not, stop racing with thoughts of excitement, wonder, worry, and thankfulness. You see, bright and early the very next morning I would be admitted to the hospital to induce labor. That's right, I was nine months pregnant with my very first child and something so common, like going to bed on a Wednesday and waking up on a Thursday, was about to change my life forever. The very next day I was going to become a mother. A MOMMY!

Of course I had spent the previous nine months trying to prepare for this life changing moment. I thought I was ready. Her crib was prepared, the rocking chair situated just so, packaged diapers piled by the changing table. Incredibly small outfits full of pink ruffles and bows, were just waiting to be worn. Neatly tucked away on the shelf were beautiful, soft blankets just waiting to wrap around a little one. The back seat of our car held a car seat designed to keep our little girl safe. Yes, I was ready.

I wasn't ready...

Yes, I knew I would have sleepless nights and tiring days. I knew it could be a challenge learning how to do simple things like cooking and laundry, AND take care of a baby. I knew I would love her. I loved her the second I knew she was being formed in my womb. I had a relationship with her for 9 months before anyone else did.

I wasn't ready...

What I did not know was the overwhelming feelings and emotions I would experience when I first laid eyes on her. That I would've never been prepared for.

I don't think there's any other situation on earth where you can love someone so completely the very first time you look into their eyes. She changed my life right then and there. I didn't want to do anything but take care of this sweet little bundle. She needed me, and oh did I need her. She absolutely completed me. Because of her, I was a mother; something I had always dreamed of being.

Lyndsey, you brought me such complete and total joy the day you came into this world. I am so thankful God has given you to me! I am blessed to have you as my daughter, Lynds. You were such a beautiful baby, and you are well on your way to becoming a beautiful young lady...inside and out. Your dad and I are very proud of you and our prayer continues to be that you grow to know your Saviour more and more. We pray you trust Him and love Him the rest of your life. It's been such a privilege to watch you grow these past 9 years. I love you Lyndsey Taylor...I always will.

Lyndsey hosted her first birthday sleepover, so she was very excited about this. Here's a picture of her and a few of her friends celebrating.