Happy 1st Birthday, Baby Girl!

Is it possible that it was one year ago today that our sweet Baby Annie came into the world? It feels like she has always been here with us, bringing joy, laughter and light with her beautiful smile and infectious laugh. Yes, it was one year ago today that Annie came into this world with a bang - pulled out of my belly via a c-section at 2:22 p.m. screaming her little brains out until she was washed up, wrapped in a warm blanket and safe in her Daddy's arms. 20 minutes after she was born I was wheeled out of the operating room and Annie went from Daddy's arms to Grammy and Papa's arms where she stayed for the next several days - my Mom brought me lunch and dinner everyday in the hospital and sat in a chair holding, rocking or combing Annie's hair while I ate and only gave her up when Papa insisted on a turn! Bob and I were reflecting on the blessings that Annie has brought to us, not just in her very being but in watching the big kids with her - watching them grow into such dedicated and loving siblings, watching them love her with such warmth and admiring them as they show her off and share her easily with everyone! We can't wait to see how Annie reacts to being a big sister - she certainly has shining examples to follow!

Ann Eileen Harding - Wheeler

September 4, 2007

8lbs 12 ounces

21 1/2 inches long

Annie being admired by her grandparents!

Our beautiful girl just hours old!

The big brother and sister enjoying Annie!

Our three beautiful children!

And here is our sweet girl on the morning of her 1st birthday!
She loved her new toy but her other presents went unopened until the big kids got home from school. They were disappointed that she slept so late on her birthday so we brought her in to see them this morning.
Playing with her new toy!
Peter got Annie a musical instrument that makes tons of noise!
Molly showing Annie how to play a song!
The bigs kids taking care of helping annie with ehr presents!
Molly got Annie her first purse with a cell phone and comb in it - too cute!
Our three gorgeous children!

Annie loved her phone - everytime she picked it up she yelped "hi" in a high pitched voice.
loving on her purse from Molly!
Cake time for Annie - I am admitting right now that my new camera is still getting the best of me - I click away and then expect everyone to enjoy the oodles of pictures I take! I'm pathetic but the cake pictures just made me smile so I included all of them. My baby turned one - cut me some slack!
Birthday kisses for Annie!
Daddy helps Annie gets some cake!

The next few speak for themselves!

Annie got the big kids cracking up as she smeared cake and frosting in her hair, ears and eyes!

I love these little fingers!
Spending her 1st birthday just as she was a year ago today - naked!
Grammy decided it was time for some healthy food for Annie and she devoured her Banana!
The birthday girl and her half naked brother hanging with Grammy and Papa!
Anyone who knows Annie knows that the joy she brings to us is undescribable. She is as special as they come and our lives are better because she is here. As I sit here with my hands resting on another bulging baby belly I can't help but think back to the fear and uncertainty I felt when I was pregnant with Annie. We loved her so much from the moment we knew she existed and today she is here a smiling, laughing and loving human being - a true miracle! And with Annie, as with each of my children, I can't help but wonder what I have done in my life to deserve such a blessing. Happy Birthday, Banana! We could not possibly love you more!

GNM - ILY!