First Birthday!

What a fabulous birthday Elise has had! Luckily daddy was able to slip out of work a few minutes early this afternoon. Elise and I got dressed in our winter clothes and met daddy down the street in our sled.... the maiden voyage! Elise was so cute riding in her sled. She sat very still and didn't move much to look around-- partly because she had so many layers of clothes! She screamed when she had to wear her gloves so we pulled her long sleeves down over her hands instead. This was a good compromise and Elise stayed nice and toasty. For dinner, we headed off to JoJos for some pizza.




















Now that we are making Elise's birthday entry, we realize that one year ago she was about to be born. We have come a long way! One year ago, Elise couldn't breathe on her own-- she needed medicine and monitors to keep her safe. She also had to be tube fed. Back then we could never have imagined how much would change. This same little girl now eats like a truck driver-- enjoys gobbling down green beans and beef tenderloin. She also enjoys laying on her stomach in the bathtub and putting her face in the water. Elise is also the girl who waves at other customers who shop at Giant Eagle, carries around her 'monkey man' blanket, and gives big kisses if you ask for one! Who knows where we will be in another year!

Even with all the 'bumps' in the road, there were a zillion wonderful moments that we have had that have made parenthood worth it. Neither Jeff nor myself would trade this past year for anything. Luckily we also have the support of our family and friends-- it truly does take a village to raise a child! We are so thankful for Elise... she has enriched and blessed our lives!!! Happy birthday Elise!