One Year

A year ago, at 9:59 am, Arabella Zoe entered the world screaming before they even had her out. I remember laying there on the csection table, wondering if they had started, when I heard a cry. I asked is that was the baby and the nurse said no way, it was too fast, but sure enough it got louder. She was literally crying while still inside. All moms are relieved to hear that sound, but after all I had been through, it was the most incredible sound I will ever hear. She was a tiny, perfect, pink bundle. I watched closely as they looked her over, asking repeatedly "is she okay?", the nurse keep assuring me she was perfect. Neil brought her over to me and I just cried watching him in her arms. They wheeled me to recovery (this hospital never takes the baby from your sight, unless there is an issue) and I was shaking so hard. I remember being cold with the boys, but nothing like this, my body was shaking so violently that I was afraid to hold her. They laid her on my chest and instantly my body when still. I held her close and looked over her from head to toe. She was REAL and finally in my arms.

Parts of my heart that I thought would never be filled again, were. People say we have spoiled her because we didn't ever put her down (pfft you can't spoil a baby with love). I wouldn't have done it any other way. While I sit here wondering how a year could go so fast, I also know I savored every moment of it.

I am still nursing her and really have no plans to stop any time soon, she will let me know when she is ready. She isn't quite walking yet, but getting closer everyday. She crawls and cruises fast as lightening and has knack for mischief like her brothers did. She just started dancing this week, which slays us all. She can say momma, daddy, doggy, kitty, touchdown, more, some form of all three boys names, hi, bye, and she tries to copy what ever we say.

I try, but I can't find the words to express how complete and happy she has made our family. I am just as in awe of her as I was a year ago today. She is the light of her daddy's eye and her brothers favorite person. As bittersweet as it is to say goodbye to the baby year, I can't wait to watch her grow and change.

Happy Birthday Arabella.

**party pics and post to follow