Elsie is Two!!

I can't believe this day is already here!! My little girl (I still want to say baby) is two! She is the most amazing, wonderful, funny, strong-willed, cute thing in the world. She is so smart and has quite the sense of humor. Sometimes she doesn't even know why she's laughing, but she has to join in on the fun.

It was two years ago today that we got a call very early in the morning from Greg that Piper was going into labor. With the way things were progressing it wasn't looking very promising for us to get to UT in time for the birth, but we hustled down there (despite the horrible driving conditions). Right about at Burley, Greg called and we heard Elsie's cry for the first time. What an amazing experience! Not quite how I had it planned out (but, really, what was I expecting...you'd think I would've learned by then that life usually doesn't work out as planned), but wonderful nonetheless.

It was kind of a strange experience walking into hospital room a few hours after her birth. Many of Aaron's family members were already there and had the chance to meet Elsie. I didn't really know what to think or how to feel seeing this baby that was mine and having all these people watching me see her for the first time. It took a little bit for me to really get comfortable and feel like she was mine. It was very surreal. I remember it suddenly hit me and felt very real and right. I'm so grateful for Piper and for everyone else that made that day possible. It has changed me and made my life so much better in so many ways. I will be eternally thankful.
The first year with Elsie was great. Quite a learning experience...and very tiring! Just a few days after her first birthday we moved up to WA. I'm not going to deny that this year has been a lot more fun with her. I love looking back and remembering her as a baby, but as she's grown into a toddler I've been amazed every day at the new things she does and at watching her personality really develop.

Here she is on her first birthday. Let's not forget, by the way, that Aaron gave her a totally jacked up bang cut just prior to this...and she looks a bit like a boy. Oh well, I think I have some pictures of myself that are just as bad. Good thing she is so cute anyway!

I haven't taken any pictures of her in the last few days, but I'll get some during our little celebration this evening.

(I will have to continue this post tomorrow...we've got a party to prepare for!)