Daily Gratitude Day 8 – My Baby Girl

The first time I held Hailey in my arms, I felt as if I was holding a sweet baby doll.  With eyes of blue and huge round rosy cheeks, she instantly melted my heart.  The first evening we were home with her from the hospital after her birth, she became very sick, spending much of the night crying and vomiting.  It felt like the longest night of my life.  By morning, we were rushing off to the doctor’s office, fearful that something was not right.  After examining her, doctor sent us off to Children’s Hospital, where after extensive testing they determined that she had a viral infection.  We spent five long days and nights in the Neonatal Intensive Care with her, unsure of exactly what was causing her illness.  The uncertainty and helplessness was unbearable.  By the fifth day, much of her testing was complete and she had finished a course of antibiotics; finally we were able to take her home.

I thank God everyday for Hailey’s health; I could never imagine my life without her.  She has grown into a tiny but strong and capable little girl.  She is sweet, bubbly and chatty, yet feisty at times.  We have always called her our “little fighter”.  She certainly does not let anyone get her down.  Her strong will and determination is remarkable.  Although she can often be a handful, she is certainly a “Mommy’s Girl” and loves spending every waking minute with me.  She is my baby – my last.  No matter how big she gets, she will always be my baby girl.  I count my blessings everyday that I have been blessed with her in my life.  She is the one who has now made our family complete – and I could not be more thankful for all the love  and joy she brings to our lives.