Happy, happy birthday!

Today marks the 1st birthday of my baby daughter. As I type this, she is next to me babbling and smiling, while emptying the contents of a trash can (don't worry - it only has paper in it!). Last year at this time, I was driving everyone crazy with my constant comments consisting of shock and amazement that this dear sweet baby was a girl.

Now, as is always the case, it is impossible to imagine life without her. Our house has had a frenzied renewal of pink clothes, blankets and toys. We have relearned to say "sweet girl" in place of "buddy" when using our baby voices. I have had lots of practice doing baby girl hair (and learning how to do her signature hairstyle, the whale spout).

And most of all, we have had many wonderful lessons in baby love. There is nothing quite like holding a tiny bundle of sweetness, and then over the months, watching that little bundle grow and show her personality (and baby, you've got lots of it!!).

This dear child has changed our lives. Sometimes she has been a challenge, as babies often are, but more than anything else, she has enriched our family. She is a truly amazing gift from God.