One Week

One Month Old.

My dear, sweet Emma -

You'll never know how much you can love until you have a child. I love my husband - the most amazing partner, father, & friend. I love my parents, who gave me life and set an example for how I should live it. I love my siblings, who have given me the type of support & encouragement that only those closest to you can provide. My heart was as full & happy as it could be. And then I became a mother.

Somehow my heart could love more & my happiest moments became more joyful than I ever thought possible. In the first days of pregnancy, you taught me the true meaning of love. And after you were born I became your student all over again. Who knew someone so small could teach you so much? I look forward to our future lessons. There are sure to be many - and not all of them pleasant or easy. But I hope you know everything I do for you comes from a place of unwavering, unconditional, & everlasting love.

Love, Mama

Hello, Baby

Our chick has hatched! Meet Ms. Emma Paige Haas. 7 lbs, 6 ozs & 20 1/2 beautiful inches. Born at 8:46 p.m. on April 8. Our estimated due date was April 7, so not only does she take after her father in looks, but in punctuality as well.

She coos and chirps and melts our hearts with those deep blue eyes. Emma took it easy on Carl & I - she gave us advance notice of her arrival and made for a relatively quick and easy delivery. More importantly, she knows the difference between night and day. (Good girl!) I'm still recovering from the wickedest of wicked neck strains, but we still get our snuggles in. Man, oh, man - so in love.