Happy 8th Birthday Olivia

Last night we celebrated Olivia's birthday with her grandparents, but today is her actual birthday. As I was getting ready early this morning (5am) I was remembering how I was getting ready to go to the hospital in the early hours of the morning 8 years ago. I was scheduled for an 8am c-section and needed to be at the hospital by 6am. My sister and her husband joined Paul and I at the hospital and helped us pass the time until they wheeled me away, and then they were there to see Olivia only minutes old. I still remember how it felt to hold her in my arms for the first time, just nuzzling her close to my cheek. She was beautiful the first time we laid eyes on her, and she is even more beautiful now. I know it's a cliche, but it is so hard to believe that 8 years has gone by so quickly. One of the best decisions Paul and I ever made was that I would quit my job as a social worker and stay home with the kids full time; I've never regretted it. Who could with these bundles of love and energy?

This cake was a definite act of love. I had a dilly of a time. It was well worth it when I saw Olivia's face light up and as I heard her say "thanks mom for working so hard on my cake." We love you Olivia; you're worth the work.

Lord, we thank you so much for bringing Olivia into our family. She adds so much spunk and color to our lives. We pray she learns to lean on you and trust you in all things. Heavenly Mother Mary hold Olivia close; pray for her and bring her to your son.