Yesterday, our little girl turned one whole year old. It is amazing how she has changed in the past year, and how much she has changed our lives. She is absolutely the best thing that has ever happened to us, and we enjoy every second with her. We feel so lucky to have her in our lives, and lucky to have so many people around us who care of her and for us. Thanks to all of you who made this last year so special.
The day she was born was the most amazing day of our lives. We were so excited and happy to finally meet our little girl. We couldn't wait to take her home to start our life as a family. Unfortunately, our first days at home were far from what we expected, and the day she had the stroke brought us from the highest point in our lives to the lowest. The week that she was in the NICU was the worst of our lives, as we just hoped and prayed that she would be all right. Thankfully, she proved to us all just how strong she is, and she came through everything micraculously healthy.
That week, everything in our lives was immediately put into sharp perspective. I had worried, like every mom, about things like getting her room ready, cleaning the house, making sure everything was perfect. I realize now that the only thing she needed was us, and that everything would be perfect as long as she was ok, and knew how loved she was. All of the other details seemed insignificant, as long as she was healthy. Now, she is healthy, and she just continues to amaze us every day. Her doctors and therapists have seen no signs of delay or of damage from the stroke; they have each referred to her as 'a miracle,' and I could not agree more.
That week, we also saw just how much we were loved, and how much our families supported us. People visited, sent cards, prayed, emailed, brought us food, and took care of everything that needed to be done so that we could concentrate on Mairead. Thanks to each of you for the part you played in getting us through all of that.
The rest of the year brought us so much joy. Her first smiles, her first laugh, her first World Series and NBA Championship. Her first time sitting up, her first time crawling. Her first words, pulling up to stand, and then cruising around the furniture. I know that we can look forward to many more 'firsts' this year, and we can't wait to see what each day will bring.
This week, I will post pictures of her birthday visit to the zoo, her birthday party on Saturday, and something special I have been working on. Thanks to all of you who check the blog and share Mairead's life with us. We hope she has made you smile!
