Longest labor, biggest baby…

She turns nine tomorrow.

That last baby we actually planned.

The one that we waited so long to have because having one + two more in less than three years was daunting.

We strategically planned to have that last baby so that the first three would be old enough to babysit. That plan has served us well.

We also knew that we wanted an even number…um, why? I have no idea why except the first three so close together just threw me off balance.

I was sure #4 would round out our family.

I love, love, love babies.

I did know I wanted to rock and hold and nurse and love just one baby.

Side note: I confess that I did pray that there would only be one baby.

I didn’t know I would have to fight Roger Leroy (a.k.a. Mama Jr.) to get a turn to hold her.

I did know that that last baby would be adored by all of us and she would always be “The Queen.”

I didn’t know how hard it would be for her to have five pseudo parents instead of two. You have to have a lot of personality and a good sense of humor to keep up in our house. Obviously, she can hang with us.

I did know we would see the world through her eyes and she would make us slow down and see beauty in the simple things.

I didn’t know she would be my only girly-girl. But still love dirt and bugs and
caterpillars.

I did know that her daddy had more than enough love for another daughter.
He lights up in her presence.

I didn’t know she would test my patience in ways I never dreamed before the teen years even hit. Big sigh…

I did know that our family would be blessed beyond measure to have her in our world. And having an even number isn’t so odd.

Happy Birthday Baby Girl! You are beautiful and smart and funny.
We all love you to the moon…

xoxo
Mama

P.S. For the observant few, oh yes, that is a giant tattoo on her hand.