Believe it or not, a year ago today we were getting ready for our Pita's birth. This is crazy. In some ways it seems like it was just yesterday that she was born. In other ways, it seems like she has been a part of our family forever. June 30, 2008, was a Monday. Mary had her bags packed that night. Since we were leaving early the morning of July 1 for the hospital, Rebekah D. came by early in the morning to watch over Madge as she slept. Mary and I drove peacefully to the hospital. Oh, the peace of an induced delivery! We walked with our gear over to the birthing section probably around 7am. Because we weren't scheduled until 7:30am, they had us wait outside as they prepared our room. We watched with anxious hope as the nurses came out to call other couples into their birthing suites. Our turn arrived. I remember seeing the white board at the entrance of the birthing section with Mary's name and that of our OB-GYN. I don't remember the number of the room we had. (I do remember walking over the refrigerator to pick out some jello and popsicles for a ravenous wife. I can't say they tasted that bad.) So many happy memories!
Pita, you're not only a happy and beautiful little girl. You're a part of our family, a part of who we are. We celebrate your birth as a part of our evolution as a family. You've already made such a huge impact on our lives, and we love you for it. We love you for who you are. We love for the joy you bring us. We love you for your smiles and snuggles, for your romping and wiles. Just one more day to your first birthday, Little Girlie!