The month of December is always an especially busy (and fun!) time of year for us, not just because of all the holiday parties and events, but because it is also one very special girl's birthday.

Lily was born 12 years ago on December 13th. Even as I spent the day in labor, I was multi-tasking! We spent the morning searching for the perfect Christmas tree and the afternoon decorating it. By that evening, I was finally ready to head to the hospital, where Lily was delivered a short time later.

Lily was a beautiful, healthy newborn; she looked like a pretty little doll with chubby cheeks and a head full of long, black hair.

I was so happy and excited to finally have my sweet baby girl in my arms. She was absolutely the best Christmas present ever!

This Christmas, I am so thankful to still be able to hold my girl in my arms. She truly is a gift and a blessing to everyone who knows her.