Laney Kate

Laney Kate,

As much as I wanted time to slow down just a little, today is your first birthday.  Its been different with you, because you are our last baby.  I've been a little more sappy about all of your firsts - first words, first steps, first foods, first smiles.  I'm a little sad about leaving babyhood behind.  But, I'm excited to see you growing bigger and learning more and new things every day.

What an unexpected little blessing you have been.  We were thinking we were done having babies when we found out you were coming.  I love those stinky ol' brothers of yours, but I just KNEW we'd have a fourth boy.  When the ultrasound tech said you were a girl, I asked if she was sure.  Since that day, my goal has been to enjoy and indulge in all things girly. 

You are the most beautiful baby girl I know.  Your blonde hair is finally starting to grow in a little more and your blue eyes shine, especially when you smile.  You have a mouthful of teeth (10 as of now, and working on a few more) and round little cheeks.  Your {slightly} chunky thighs make me want to swoon.

You are basically eating off the table all the time now.  Unlike your brothers, who got picky when they started eating table food, you like....everything.  You've eaten lettuce and tomatoes, carrots, onions, squash, zucchini, strawberries, grapes, bananas, and more.  You like it all.  You especially love Cheetos, cake, and suckers. ;) 

I was starting to wonder if you were ever going to start drinking from a cup, but you are getting the hang of it now.  And, you are thinking that milk is good after all.  So far, I'm getting about a cup and half down you each day.

You are still taking a morning and afternoon nap.  I would love to rock you to sleep, but you are squirmy and don't go to sleep as well that way.  But, when I lay you down in bed with your blanket and a paci, you generally go right to sleep.  And, those times where we do cuddle are all the more special.

Speaking of the paci, well, you are addicted.  None of my other kids have been, so this is new for us.  Sometimes you are a little fussy, and if I give you your paci, you settle right down.  Its like you need a little fix or something.  I at least try to buy you cute ones since you have them in your mouth so often.

You are saying a few words: mama, dada, uh-oh.  I THINK you say several more: up, Ayden, Landon, more, milk.  But, you aren't much of a performer when it comes to repeating a word after me or saying one again that I think I just heard.

You are crazy about your big brothers, and they are just as crazy about you.  Bless your heart.  They kiss you until I'm sure you're sick of it.  When you cry, they sing to you, usually "Jesus Loves Me."  They "help" you play with your toys, and they make sure every new person you meet knows that you are their sister.

You are generally a very happy baby.  Although, I think you have a little of Camden's quick temper.  But, I also wonder if you also have Ayden's tender heart since you cry when I tell you "no-no" or to stop.  But, you are content to, ahem, "explore" on your own and you stay happy more times than not.  Especially when there's a camera around - you're kind of a ham for photo time.

I don't remember what our family was like without you in it.  I think you are a very lucky and well protected girl to have three big brothers.  You are most definitely the little princess in our family.  I'm so thankful that God picked us to be your family.  You are the most amazing baby girl.

I can't wait to see how much you grow and change over the next year.  I love you sweet girl.

Happy Birthday!!

Mama