five years.

Five years ago today, I became a mother.  That single statement has altered every view and perception, every hope and dream, every committment and goal since.  Though I have shared the details of Katie's birth many times, I cannot express how grateful I am literally every single day for her life.  We weathered a storm, Katie and I, and although there are times I still struggle with the guilt of feeling as if it is my body that failed her, I also know what an inherent little fighter she is, and how (hopefully) this will become an amazing asset for her as she continues to grow... The statistics against her life are overwhelming, and I have a beautiful, healthy happy FIVE year old little girl.  This birthday is hard for me, I'm not going to lie.  Four still seemed toddler-ish and five is definitely not so much toddler anymore.  Her independence grows daily, she is inquisitive and curious, content and loved.  My beautiful little girl, Katie Jade was born five years ago today weighing two pounds and three ounces.  My little tiny baby girl is getting big...

Just a few highlights of my Katie's special day...

the beautiful birthday girl.

as soon as she got home from school she tore into the few presents that I let her open early.
(and I wonder why she's spoiled...geez)

however, after saying that...the Dora movie was a hit

score one for mom

and i'm always all about that :)

In case you're wondering Katie isn't saying she's zero, she saying that she's "one whole hand." 
Katie was very very excited (meaning talked about it CONSTANTLY) to be one whole hand.
I digress..

That night, after a lovely afternoon of playing with new presents, meeting a new neignborhood friend just two doors down, and riding bikes Papa Jay came over and we took KJ out for a birthday dinner at Steak 'n Shake.  We hardly ever go out to eat with the kids...just not worth it, usually, but we let Katie pick whatever she wanted off the menu.  Her selection: peanut buttter and jelly (which she doesn't even like at home) with a side of macaroni and cheese and a chocolate milkshake with NO white in it.  I have no idea what that means, but apparently it was important because she repeated it a lot.  She cracks me up.

We came home for cake and even more presents!

Happy Birthday, Katie.  You make my world brighter.  I love you.

make a wish...

my sweet girl on her special night.

It's been an amazing five years....and it has been so fun to watch you grow up.
We hope you had a special day.

And, yes...you finally get to be one whole hand :)