To Eleanor on her First Birthday.

Dear Miss Eleanor,

One year ago your dad and I packed our bags and checked into the hospital. You were a week overdue and I was to be induced the next day. You were stubborn and very happy where you were. Your Grandma had been staying with us for the week and she was feeding us brownies and homemade dinners (no wonder you were over 9 pounds!). The night before you came, your dad and I watched the gopher hockey team lose on the little hospital TV. I got the nice hospital bed and your dad slept on the foldout chair.

The next morning, the nurses started on your arrival. Our nurse said you would for sure be out by noon. But, again, you were very happy where you were and decided that 5:42 was a much better time for you to come into the world. No one expected you to be the 22", nine pound 3 ouncer you were. But there you were. The first time they laid you on my chest and knew you were my Ellie. Your dad was so proud. It was the happiest day of our lives. Both of your grandma's were anxiously awaiting outside the door. They both almost blinded you with all the flashes of their cameras.

Eleanor, we waited a long time for you. But we had to wait or you wouldn't have been our little Ellie. Everyday since the day you were born has been better than the day before. You have blessed our lives in so many ways. We are so lucky to have you - you have brought us so much love and joy. Love, mom and dad