Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Happy Birthday Katrina

It is hard to believe that it was three years ago today when my little sweetheart entered the world. I still remember quite clearly getting the call at work on the 21st from Kristin telling me her water broke and my shock since Katrina was not due until the end of March. I remember my frantic (read: way too fast) driving from base to our house, and then the calm and controlled drive to the hospital once I had secured Kristin. Considering how rough labor can be on a first time mother, Kristin had it relatively easy. At a couple of minutes past midnight on the 22nd, Katrina Grace Warshaw came into the world and changed our lives forever. I fell in love with her the minute I saw her and knew there was nothing that I wouldn’t do for that little girl. I also remember how scared Kristin and I were when we were told that her iron was low and that she was going to have to be transported to the NICU in Columbia. 12 of the longest days you can imagine were spent commuting back and forth from Sumter to Columbia to see her and hopefully get word that we would soon be able to bring her home.

Each day I enjoy watching her grow a little more and learn something new. I love the curiosity I see in her eyes as she continues to explore the world around her. I just love being around her. Whether running around and kicking a ball outside or snuggling on the couch watching TV. It hurt my heart to be away from her for a year and I’ll do my damndest to ensure that never happens again. Now that I’m back, you better believe I’ll maximize every moment that I have with her.

Happy Birthday Katrina Grace Warshaw! Daddy loves you now and forever.