Today marks the one year anniversary of Colleen’s birth. This has been the fastest year of my entire life. I’ll admit I’m in a bit of denial that we’ve arrived at this milestone with our little baby. And I’m quite alright and comfortable with continuing to call her “baby.” She’s still content with crawling and being carried rather than walking. I am grateful that she’s not in a big hurry to run away from me. Of course, my back will probably be out of alignment for years to come, but I can live with that.
Colleen has brought immense joy to our lives. I say this past year has gone by quickly but, just like her big sister, it’s hard to remember life before her. I labored with her for 30+ hours. She is my VBAC baby. She made her grand entrance into the world weighing 8 pounds and 10 ounces. Her cheeks were so squishable. Since the moment we first held her she has loved to snuggle. She craves human touch and pats you on your arm when you hold her and sometimes strokes your hair. She has the sweetest giggle. She also has a fiery temper. She’s not afraid to express herself when she’s not happy. She’s a screamer. A thrasher. A teeth grinder. Despite the healthy temper, I still say she’s an easy going baby. She hangs tough with her sister during the day and sleeps when she needs it. As long as she’s fed and clean, then she’s ready to roll. She’s also as soft as a marshmallow and has the most edible thighs you have ever seen.
Colleen’s biggest love is probably her big sister. She thinks Jae hung the moon. Jae can make her laugh harder and louder than anyone. She can also make her scream louder than anyone. They’re becoming sweet playmates and friends. Jae is really sweet when she talks to her and teaches her words. She’s not saying them right now, but we have a feeling she’s storing them up for later.
Colleen isn’t walking or talking all that much but she can figure out how to unhook buckles, open packages, climb into the bathtub, stand up in her highchair{see: buckles}, and climb just about anything that will hold up to her. And she’s quite proud of herself when she does so. We’ve enjoyed watching her grow and develop into a tiny person. She is starting to communicate more and more each day. She’ll wave hello and goodbye, blow kisses, sign “more” and gives great hugs.
Colleen Shea, I never could have imagined how wonderful you would be and how much my heart would grow when I laid eyes on you. I love your sweet nature. I love your dimples. I love your thunder thighs. I love your cowlick. I love your soft hair. I love your rather large big toe. I love your smile and giggles. I love your little hands. And I love to watch you sleep. I love you. Your Daddy Boy loves you. Your sister loves you. And God loves you.
Happy Birthday, Colleen!
5 months ago