Happy Birthday, Baby!

It's hard to believe that my baby is one.

I worked so hard, dragging my feet, doing everything in my power to keep her small and baby-like. (It's funny that I would feel that way, since with Jayden I just couldn't wait for him to start growing up the minute he came out of the womb.)

Maybe it's because she is number three and I have wised up about just how quickly that first year really goes. Maybe it's because she has been an absolute dream. Maybe it's because she is our little girl.

At any rate, here she is, one whole year today. And, I am finally at peace that she can no longer be called "a baby." The exciting milestone of walking last month has really helped, I think.

Instead of reflecting on a year of firsts that will never come again for her, I can focus more on the lifetime of firsts ahead. And just how exciting those will be!

When I think back to this past year, I can honestly say I enjoyed every minute of it.

Those first few nights when she was only days old I would lay her beside me in bed and she would just stare at me and smile. (Yes, smile, no it wasn't gas.)

All the late night feedings. I really didn't mind.

She was a pleasure to cart around on errands, to dinners and movies, and even to Europe. Her sunny personality was a true delight.

Even sitting in the hospital for five days when she was a month old. Though it was painfully boring and hard to be away from the boys, it was so nice to have five whole days of one-on-one time with my baby.

Avery has been such a breath of fresh air for us. I can't begin to expain how much fun I had breaking out "pink" for the nursery, or gathering cute little dresses and girly outfits. Or how just having a female temperment has been delightful in our house. A great way to balance all our boys.

We are so lucky to have her as part of our family.

Happy Birthday, Avery!