Happy 7th Birthday to my oldest baby girl!

I think I am finally back in business and have the new computer up and running. I even found some new programs on here that I can't wait to experiment with (including the newest version of photo shop!!)
The last week of September we celebrated Kendall's 7th birthday at our house with a cook out and then a bomb fire that night. It was an absolutely beautiful day with family and friends and we all had so much fun - especially Kendall. Here are a few of my favorite pics from her birthday.




Kendall's birthday was the second time that the family has gotten together since my brother left for marine boot camp and his presence was definitely missed! We did take some pictures to send to him with all the kids and my mom and dad in their new USMC sweatshirts though.




It seems like only yesterday Brian & I were anxiously awaiting the birth of Kendall. I don't think that anything can prepare you for the birth of your first child because you simply have not known that kind of love for anything before.
Kendall's was not an easy delivery. I was induced because I was past due, but when my labor did start it was very fast and furious!! Too fast for me to even get an epidural. Never in my life had I been in so much pain and never in my life had fear and worry consumed my heart so violently. After her delivery she came out totally blue and limp. Luckily for me I had a wonderful group of nurses that resuscitated her and after a rough start she came around and started breathing and crying.
And I sobbed with relief that the birth was over . . . and then I sobbed even louder when I realized that Kendall and I were both fine. It was not at all a fun experience . . . not at all the type of birth that was talked about in our birthing class! It was truly a terrifying time for all and Brian jokes that he still has nightmares about Kendall's birth! In fact, I can remember telling him moments after she was born that Kendall would be an only child - because there was NO WAY I was doing that again.
But then they placed my sweet baby in my arms and I instantly felt such an overwhelming feeling of love wash over me. And at that very moment all the pain and worry was absolutely worth it when I looked at her sweet face. At that very moment, I became a mother. And it didn't take me very long to completely forget about the pain . . . and want another baby!
I always refer to Kendall as "my oldest baby" because even though she is seven she is still my baby. And she got to be my first baby, which means that with her I get to experience all my first as a parent with her. This parenting thing is an on going learning experience. I have learned so much from her. She is such a sweet kid. She is so smart and has a memory that doesn't forget anything! She is very kind-hearted and is very in tune with me. Kendall always knows if I am sad or upset or worried about something and does not like me to be sad at all. I love her with all of my heart and soul! Happy birthday baby girl! We love you so much.