I'll never forget that moment I first found out you were coming into our lives. I was elated. I remember the wait for your Daddy to wake up seemed like an eternity. The butterflies, the tears, the grin I couldn't wipe off my face. You were instantly loved. And the day that I found out you would be our first daughter? That's a day I will store in my memories forever.

The day you were born felt like a scene from a movie. Everything was perfect. I literally laughed you into this world. I looked up at your Daddy's face as I pushed and could not stop laughing. You came right out! The labor was a dream, and the moment I first held you still makes me swell with pride. You were absolutely beautiful.

You've grown from a tiny little thing to a walking, babbling (dare I say it?) toddler. You have the most easy going personality. You're absolutely sweet as pie. You would follow your brother anywhere, and I don't think you adore anyone more. Your favorite time of day is when your Daddy walks through the door. I'm fairly certain you spend half your night following him around and the other half glued in his arms. You get so excited when you see your Aunt Lindsey in the morning and are sure to snuggle up to her as fast as you can.

You are a cuddler. You always want to be held and would live in our wraps and carriers. You give hugs and kisses and carry your baby doll around all day long. You have a tender heart and a smile that lights up a room.

Simply put, we can't imagine life before you. God blessed us more than we deserve when he gave us you. You're an angel. I love you more than I can say, Kate Elizabeth. I'm so proud to be your momma. Happy first birthday, baby girl!

2017- The New Year

I sit here, sipping my morning coffee, watching as my two little ones play together (somewhat) peacefully. As they race back and forth through their little pop-up tunnel, they giggle fiercely and somehow make it happen with a rare lack of any injuries to each other. I feel blessed. I feel tired. I feel determined.

2016 brought giant blessings and big heartaches. My first daughter was born, and I honestly can’t picture what life was like without her. It doesn’t seem possible that there was a time without our sweet, happy little girl. Liam turned 2 and I learned where the phrase “terrible 2’s” comes from. There were tears when one of my best friends in the world lost her daddy. There was determination to live more knowing that life can disappear at any moment.

Ringing in 2017 gave me home for a clean slate in a year I’m determined to make a beautiful one. I want to love bigger, yell less, live simpler, give selflessly and laugh more. I want to have more dance parties with my kids, spend more time with my husband, and have more “forget to check my phone” moments.

Happy 2017, friends. I hope that you can look back on this coming year as we ring in the next knowing that you grew for the better.

Anna