Big 3

Happy Birthday to Ella!

My baby girl turned 3 today! Just three short years ago David and I were blessed with the most wonderful gift that we could ever imagine. Right before I went in for surgery I was on the phone with Mom and she told me "Your life is about to change forever". How right she was. Not just in the way of changing diapers, losing sleep and the huge responsibility that comes with parenthood. I have easily gotten used to the extra work.

What I still can't seem to fathom is the immense amount of love and concern that being a parent brings. Sometimes I am in awe of how one little girl can make my heart feel like it's too big for my chest, bring me to tears at the thought of her enduring an ounce of pain and make me willing to go to great lengths for her happiness and safety. Now I know why David always said he would rather tangle with a bull than take on a mama cow with her calf. It's nature at it's finest.

Three years ago at this very minute I was flying on some good drugs, basking in the new mommy glow and beginning the greatest, wildest, most fun and rewarding ride of my life.

Then

and now.