Dear Natalie Rose, on the eve of your First Birthday…

Dear Natalie Rose, on the eve of your First Birthday, I am gathered here with nearly 365 days of memories that are glimmered with you. We learned you were joining our family back in February of last year, and since that day we waited with anticipation for your birth.

We quickly learned you were a BABY GIRL when you were born on October 31st at 11:58pm. You came into this world just as fast as I did 30 years ago: with very little warning and the grand rawness only childbirth knows of.

You nestled perfectly into the crevices of our family…

…and we love having you alongside us.

Natalie Rose, you are a precious bundle of perfection. You are a delight, are so expressive…

…and are so very curious!

Natalie Rose, you are so generous with your smiles…

…and you get an A+ at sharing everything you have with your older brother, Maxwell.

I’d say seven years of marriage, six addresses, (almost) five family members, four cities, three states,  two handmade businesses, and one pup and looks pretty good on our family! ;)

I’m a bit in awe at how quickly your first year of life has gone by. But then again, being a mommy to you and Maxwell (and baby #3) is such a joy that of course this last year has gone by quickly! Of course! Being a mama makes my soul dance in cartwheels.

Can you hear us, sweetie? We are clapping with pure happiness over your presence within our family. Thank you, Jesus, for a blessed year with our daughter, Natalie Rose. We love you all the way to the moon, and BACK!