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It’s so hard to believe that two years ago at this moment, I was in labor, awaiting the arrival of my daughter. It seems so long ago that I laid in that hospital bed, with Rich by my side, helping me through contractions. Rich was the one who stood by me encouraging me to forego the epidural as I originally planned, even when I thought I could no longer take it. In the end, the labor, the 9 months of discomfort, paid off. We had a beautiful baby girl, who we named Vavia Rose.
I’ll never forget the way she looked the first time I saw her. All I could see was a head full of hair. She was gorgeous. Counted the fingers and toes, yep, they were all there. She was perfect.
I’ll never forget how she looked laying next to me in the hospital. This beautiful little creature that was depending on us completely.
I’ll never forget the first time she smiled. We were listening to “I’m Sticking With You” by the Velvet Underground.
I’ll never forget the first time she ate solid food, slithered across the floor, laughed hysterically or the day she took her first steps.
And I’ll never forget the countless memories we’ve made over the last two years as I watched her grow from a completely helpless little baby to a very strong and independent little girl.
Having a child, especially one like Vavia, has brought so much joy to our lives. I always feel good when I hear her shrieks of joy or see her in the morning with her sleepy eyes.
I know the next year is going to hold even more excitement as we witness the arrival of her first cousin on my side of the family, Seraya Baker. I cannot wait for her to have a cousin who is close to home and that she can grow up with. I can only imagine what the coming year will bring.
I love you Vavia. Happy Birthday.
