One Year!

Adalyn Grace,

Yesterday we celebrated your 1st birthday. Tonight I rocked you to sleep. I held you close, took in the smell of a fresh out of the bath, sweet smelling one year old, blue eyed little girl and went down memory lane. My baby, my fourth born, my sweet little girl has turned one. I have to admit that it is so bittersweet to me. I’m so grateful that I have a healthy little one year old that is into everything, yet part of me is sad too. Sad that family is so far away and missed out on most of your 1st year. In five short days we will load up in the suburban and head back to Michigan for a visit. I can’t wait. I can’t wait to celebrate your birthday in Michigan surrounded by family.

At one year, you weigh in at 17lbs, 8 ozs and are 29 inches tall. You may be little, but you have a big attitude. You can hold your own against your siblings and have no problem voicing your opinion when things don‘t go your way. You are very funny and I have to laugh at you almost daily. You love the rocking chair and spend hours climbing in and out of it. You love watching cooper run around the house and as soon as you hear me getting dinner ready you try and climb into your chair. You climb on just about anything. Last night when we were out for dinner you kept climbing on top of the table because you wanted a drink. You are cruising around furniture pretty quickly these days and I know it is only a matter of time before you will be walking on your own.

You are still a total mommy’s girl and I have to admit, I love it. As soon as I walk in the door you want nothing more than me to pick you up and carry you around. If I don’t honor your request the instant you notice I am home, you are very clear about how unhappy you are and will follow me around until I give in and pick you up.

You are adored by many. We came home yesterday to balloons from my co-worker and friend and you got a new doll and a new bathing suit from Ryan and Alissa. Although far away from family, we are blessed with many wonderful friends here and I am so grateful for that.

One year. It’s been a great one and I have enjoyed every minute of watching you go from a newborn to a independent little thing.

Happy 1st birthday sweet baby girl!

With much love,

Mommy