My Baby Turned 1!

Dear Calina,

Mommy has been in severe denial that an entire year has flown by since you joined our family.  Wasn't it just yesterday that we brought you home from the hospital?  You were such a good baby and are turning into a very sweet girl.  Mommy and Daddy loved you from the beginning.

That first week of your life in the NICU was definitely one of the hardest things Mommy has ever been through.  It has definitely made her a little more protective of you.  You were such a good baby when we brought you home. 

Your big sister, Fiona, has pretty much adored you from the moment we brought you home from the hospital.  Every day you guys become closer and better friends.  I love watching your relationship grow.  You like to follow Fiona around and try to be just like her.  She takes good care of you and doesn't like it when you are left out of things. 

Even though you love your sister a lot, you love your Mommy the most.  You are my snugly mama's girl.  I'm not ready for you to grow up yet.  You are much quieter and more cautious than your sister.  Falling and strangers make you very nervous.  You are taking steps on your own and can walk well when holding someone's hand, but you are too nervous to walk all on your own. 

You make us smile and laugh every day.  You are quite a ham when you want to be.  I love the way that you dance.  When I'm having a stressed out moment I often start singing the VeggieTales theme song because it makes you do your silly shoulder dance.  No one can watch you do that and stay in a bad mood.  You definitely bring lots of smiles and laughter into our family. 

We are so blessed to have you in our lives and in our family. I can't imagine my life without you and I thank God that He gave you to us.

You have grown and changed so much in this last year. I'm excited to watch your personality continue to develop. We love you so much!! Happy 1st Birthday, Calina!!