Celebrating our Nation's Freedoms and my Yankee Doodle Princess

Note: This post has absolutely nothing to do with running.  It's about my daughter.  I couldn't find pictures on the computer for my younger son's birthday, but I'll do a post on him soon.  

After many years of infertility, a miscarriage, and starting our family through adoption, we were thrilled to learn we were pregnant in October of 2002.  10 years ago--- 2 1/2 weeks after her due date---my doctor asked, "So, are you ready to have this baby?"  Yes!!!!  And in the early hours of July 4th, Heather made her appearance.

Enjoy this walk down memory lane with me.  Scroll down to the very end to see the song I sing to her...

A very tired Mommy (and baby)'s first cuddle.

Daddy meeting Heather.  Notice the hair and beard.  He didn't shave, trim his hair, or trim his beard from the time we found out about the pregnancy.  He went out and did it shortly after she was born. (See further down).

Big brother Cameron got to hold Heather (with help from Papaw and Daddy) before any of the grandparents. (He did have to wait until Mommy and Daddy held her.)

A neat and trimmed Daddy and Heather at home.

I'm not sure who enjoyed this position more---Daddy or Heather!

Here is me with Heather on the day she was dedicated.  My aunt Marilyn made the christening gown.

I just love this picture of Heather. And it's one of my favorite outfits. (The date is wrong. It was actually about August 2003).

First Birthday (2004)

2nd birthday (2005).  I ordered a Dora cake. Instead of pink and purple trim, they used red and blue.

3rd birthday (2006) Daddy made her a Barbie cake.

4th birthday(2007)

5th birthday (2008)  I decided to make a flag cupcake cake. It took forever!!

6th birthday (2009) Family party.

7th birthday (2010) picture is missing!??!?!?!

8th birthday (2011)  Her picture is on the cake.

9th birthday (2012).  She was into The Dork Diaries last year, so I made her a topping to represent the book.  (I ordered a pre-iced cake from Sam's though!)

The  night before her 10th birthday.  Final day in the single digits.  My beautiful princess.  My Yankee Doodle Princess.

Yankee Doodle Princess

You're a Yankee Doodle Princess

A Yankee Doodle sweetie pie

A real life niece-y of your Uncle Sam

Born on the 4th of July

You're a Yankee Doodle Sweetheart

The apple of your Daddy's eye.

Yankee Doodle went to town a riding on a pony

You are that Yankee Doodle girl!

Next time I post, will be after my race on Saturday.  I'll sign off with one of my favorite songs about my favorite country.  "God Bless the USA".