Birthdays!

William and I had our Birthday on Saturday. My 29th and William's 1st! I knew it would be special to share it with him, but when the day actually arrived, it was even better than I thought. I can't really describe the feeling, but there was just something between Will and I that day that was unique and so dear to my heart. We had a GREAT day. I was just happy to not be in the hospital on my Birthday, and that the sun was out. Those two things alone made it very nice. We opened presents first thing, because we knew the day would be busy, busy, busy. Ben spoiled me with a really nice pair of pearl earrings (I have been wanting a pair for a while now), a new camera (no more crappy cell phone picts on the blog!!!!), and a pre-planned weekend get-away for the two of us in July. We gave William a ball, some new clothes, and a really cool toy that lights up, makes music, has blocks on it, and all sorts of gadets. Then it was off to the gym. I had my last hard six mile speed workout before the marathon tapering week (this week). From there it was off to a Maynard reunion at the park. Ben and the boys stayed while I took Mary to a dress rehersal for a gymnastics recital the gym is putting on this month. Then it was off to TUCANOS in Salt Lake!!! So yummy. They sang to William and I, and William had his first taste of ice cream. Of course, he loved it. Then it was home and a mad rush to get ready for the party. I came home to these gorgeous flowers, and a balloon from my family. They had me smiling all day! The party was truly awesome. We had about 30 couples show up, and a lot of kids. We had lots of food, music and a full house. We partied until well into the evening. My heart was very full all day. It was just such a special and happy day. I know William felt it too. The celebrations continued on Sunday. William and I had our Birthday cakes. William had his first taste of chocolate, and I indulged in a yummy cheesecake. Then it was off to a friends house with more playing, laughing and talking with a bunch of families until well into the night. And to top it all off....William took his first three steps while we were there! We have video of it from a cell phone, but as of right now, I cannot get it on the blog. It was awesome though!
I remember being in the hospital last year at this time, wondering what my life would be like this year at this time, and also reflecting what had happend the previous year at that time. I was so scared about the move, I was sure that I wouldn't be able to find good friends, I was worried about finding schools, gyms, activities, and our groove. I was really stressed, worried and scared. I went to bed the night of our Birthday this year feeling so blessed for all the Lord has done for us this past year. We had a house full of good friends that care about us, and we them. Our kids are thriving here. They have great friends and they are so happy. Ben and I are happy here. We have a big, happy, adorable 1 year old. And we feel at home. Sometimes we have to make sacrifices that we don't understand. For us, it was moving to Utah. It was one of the hardest things we have ever done as a family, and a huge test of faith. I am so grateful for a Heavenly Father who allows us to stretch and grow through sacrifice and faith, but then gives us blessings more than we can even imagine, and more than we deserve.

It was a wonderful Birthday.