Well, overall I have to say that today was a good day. We took so many pictures that I hesitated to post anything because I think I will probably make a video with them. But, I really wanted to get this post on here before the end of the day so that it was dated on Hailey's actual birthday.
We started our day with our usual Saturday morning run. We have been eating healthy and working out 5-6 days a week. I guess it started when I decided I was really going to lose weight (for real this time). I decided that Hailey's birthday would be my goal date. I really feel that I was able to do this because of the strength that I received from my sweet baby girl (and the Lord, of course). Anyway, I did it - I lost 38 pounds (only two from my goal, but it was my "dream" goal so I feel I made it). Every Saturday we have been taking the kids over to our clubhouse area. There is a 1/4 mile track in the back so the kids ride their scooters around while Aaron and I run. We started with 8 laps (2 miles). A few weeks ago we decided to add one more for Hailey. We have been hoping to work our way up to a 5k run. Well today we pushed ourselves and ran 3 miles for Hailey. It was very satisfying to end my goal celebration with a strong run. Emotionally I needed that - I love the way I feel after I run. We weren't sure we really had time to run this morning. I am so glad that we did - it was a perfect start to our day.
We met family and friends at the memorial gardens at 10:30 to celebrate her birthday. We got all pink balloons and one white one to signify her 1st birthday. We all wrote a special note and tied it to the balloons to send up to heaven. Even the kids wrote their own special notes - they were super cute. We let the balloons go as we wished her a happy birthday. The one white "angel" balloon led the way for the other balloons. It was really neat.
Since our little family is leaving for Thanksgiving and just getting away we all came back to our house for a BBQ. We visited and had a great time.
Although we had moments of emotions that overcame us, I have to say we did way better than I ever thought we would. I am so thankful for that. It was a good day and will forever be remembered that way.
As a side note, the people at the memorial gardens were able to fix the wording on Hailey's marker so that it is no longer slanted. It looked so much better. Yay!
Happy 1st Birthday Hailey! We love you! XOXOXOXO
