Happy Birthday Gillian!

This picture was taken when Gillian and I went on the NightWatch trip back in February. She is in front, it's one of the few pictures of her with her hair down and I think it is just GILLIAN! If you look to the left of her you can see me busting some moves (I have on the blue LLBean overalls).

I am so thankful for this child. She has done nothing but keep me on my toes since she was born. From the 10 weeks of bedrest leading up to an induced labor at 42 weeks that lasted 27 hours with 2 hours of pushing thrown in. Her head never decended. I should have known then that I was in for it! After a crash C-Section, my first child was born on August 5th, 1992 at 8:06am. She weighed 7 pounds 3 oz and was 21" long. She came crashing into my world, and has taught me the important need for a parent to be patient. She has also taught me that no child is ours, but rather our for a short time. To hopefully impart manners, skills, values and judgement and then give them the wings they need to fly. I only hope that when that time comes, I have the grace to let her go.

I love you Gillian. Forever and for always.