Happy 9th Birthday, Alexzander!

Who knew that having a baby makes your heart expand so hugely? And just when you think that you can't possibly love that little person anymore, or your heart may explode, they really start to get cute.

Wishing you the best of birthdays today. I cannot believe you are nine.. it feels like it was just yesterday that YOU were growing inside my belly.

You taught me how to be a mommy, you make me laugh, shake my head, re-evaluate every piece of sarcasm in my mouth, and keep me on my toes. I love it when you want to cuddle or snuggle with me, because you'll always be my baby. I love watching you grow, and get older, even if I want to pretend you're still just a little squirt with a plastic tool box. I love how you challenge me, and encourage me to be a fighter. How you teach me how to be a better mom, and show me that being different is really super cool. I love you tremendously- never, ever forget it.

Happy Birthday, Butterbean.

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Where does the time go??

My Facebook status update said it all:

*I* cannot believe that 7 years ago, I was in labor for the first (& only!) time. Cyndy made some yummy dinner, LI had a blizzard,& Brian slept through most of the contractions. The hospital sent me home once,& I refused to let them send me the 2nd time. 2 days overdue + 23.5 hours of labor+ 1 state of emergency+ 3 hours of pushing + one shift change mid delivery= The doctor that delivered me delivering my son.. all 10lbs 5oz, 22.5 inches of him.

For some reason this year, it seems totally unreal. Abbigaile just turned 4 and that didn't feel as crazy as this birthday does. I know that experienced parents say, "Enjoy it, the time seems to fly", but it almost feels like I lost 7 years.. I have memories of that time, but it genuinely feels like a month or two ago that I had Alex. Really.  It's insane, the weird space/time thing that moms step into the moment they hold their first born the very first time.

The moral of this post.. hug your children today. If you don't have kids, call your mom or dad and tell them that you still love them. Happy Friday!

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