One year ago my Harper was born. I think back on what our life was like before she was here.
It was calmer, quieter and less work. I always though Harper was going to be a
carbon copy of Hadley- I thought they would look alike and have the same
personalities. Never could I have imagined that they would be so different, and
yet both so perfect. And one year later it’s hard to even imagine what life
would be like without this little love.
Here is her birthday letter.
Dearest Harper,
Today is your first birthday. How can that be? Turns out
time moves forward in warped speed when you have two small children. Each day
is a balancing act of making memories and basic survival!
Your labor and birth were a whirlwind and I remember being
desperate in seeing your face. As soon as we made eye contact I knew my silly
fear that I wouldn’t know how to love two daughters and that I wouldn’t have
anything left to give, was just that…silly. It’s some sort of miraculous
parenthood grace that I can’t put into words, but let me assure you, my love
for you is stronger than even I could have ever imagined.
I’ve spent the last few evenings going through all of the
pictures from your birth and first few weeks at home and it hardly seems like
enough time has gone by to justify my reminiscing, but you’ve changed so much.
A year is a long time filled with years of
progress when you are a baby.
You are special and unique from the top of your head to
the tip of your little toe. There is no one like you. You add a light and a
sparkle to this world. You love being around people and you are really funny. I
can see your little personality growing and see little glimpses of the little
girl you are becoming.
Know that you are loved, my Harpie Lou. Your four
grandparents (and great-grandparents!) look at you in awe. They hold you in
their arms, beaming with love as they take in the wonder that you are. Your
aunts, uncles and 8 cousins love you so much- they all think you are the cutest, funniest baby around. Your sister follows you around and
can’t get enough of you.- she would do anything for you. You are the light in
your daddy’s eye. He loves you more than words can express.
My love for you cannot be measured. Every time I see you,
hear your squeaky voice, I feel more alive, more in love, more inspired to be a
better, kinder person, and more moved to show my gratitude for being you and
Hadley’s mama. (Thank you Jesus for this most wonderful blessing!)
A year ago today, our family of 3 became a family of 4 and
the completion that you bring is indescribably beautiful.
And just like I did with your sister…when I woke you up this
morning I whispered the same thing into your ear as I did when you were born, happy
birthday baby girl.
Love,
Mommy
PS- And to my dear husband Derek- we survived!! Somehow by
the grace of God (and lots of help from our families!), we made it through this
year! There is no one else I’d rather share this adventure of parenthood with.
I love you, too!!
