A Perfect 10

I've been thinking long and hard about what to write for Elin's 10th birthday on the blog. It's such a milestone, a full decade, entering into double figures- I've been really stuck for a way I could accurately pay tribute to what it means to us to be safely here. For the first time since I started the blog I don't think I can find a way to describe how I feel. The emotions are too great and too complex and my writing could never do the occasion justice. I will have to keep it simple, then.

We are so, so happy.

The girl who didn't breathe by herself for 10 long days after birth is 10 years old. What more is there to say? As a weird twist of fate, as I was shopping for last minute party bits in the supermarket on Friday, I bumped into the Consultant who had been on duty the day Elin was born. He asked how she was and I was absolutely over the moon to tell him I was buying things for her 10th birthday party this weekend. "Wow" he said. 

Wow.

That's a perfect choice of word to describe my perfect girl. Elin was the best we've ever seen her on her birthday this weekend. Happy and relaxed and even sitting in her chair for ages outside!! First time ever she has sat in a chair at her party!!! It was the biggest and best yet, with about 60 people including 15 kids squashed into the cottage garden (plus the field next-door which the farmer down the road very kindly let us 'borrow')!!! Also, following 12 hours of torrential downpour on Friday, Saturday didn't have a drop of rain. The sun always shines for Elin. 

The cherry on top of the cake was that this year, we have asked for donations to Wrexham Special Care Baby Unit (Cherish) in place of gifts for Elin (she has so much of what she needs already and we wanted to make a gesture of thanks to the place that saved her life 10 years ago today) . So far our friends, family and acquaintances have between them given Elin over £1,000 to donate to SCBU!!! As the consultant said in the supermarket..WOW.  I can't believe the generosity and we are absolutely humbled by it. The love and support Elin has, even from those who hardly know her, is just incredible. I sometimes think in certain situations I wonder what Elin would say if she could. If she could, in this instance, she would definitely say thank you. Thank you all for the care, love, support and unending kindness.

I was worried I would find this weekend emotional, but aside from the odd tiny wobble it's just been absolutely wonderful. A perfect 10. Just like Elin.

Elin did get SOME presents, I hasten to add...(as if you hadn't guessed)

Favourite moment of party: Bouncy Castle fun!!!!

Favourite present: Wireless, light up headphones that play music of our choice to her :-)

So that's the end of another party, another birthday and the start of a new chapter for Elin as she enters double digits. Thanks to all for your cards, your gifts, your donations, your well wishes, your kind comments and your thoughtfulness. Thanks for continuing to follow this blog and continuing to take such an interest in our miracle girl. We can't wait to see what the next 10 years holds! Happy Birthday, Elin.

"The only time you should ever look back, is to see how far you've come"

xxxxx