Exactly one year ago today, at around 7:00 AM, I woke up with contractions because my sweet baby girl was on her way to being born. I knew my life was about to change forever, as everyone says, but I couldn't know how gloriously fulfilling it would be. Just when I think my heart is as full as it can be with this amazing little being, she stretches it a little bit more. Every little thing about her life so far has been experienced with an all-consuming fascination and joy. Gazing at her for hours just watching her little mouth move when she was a newborn. Being so excited for the spurts of time her eyes were open! Celebrating the first time she could wrap her little fingers around something to hold. Bursting with joy when she looked at me with that first barely-there smile. And the baby laugh, oh man the first baby laughs brought me to my knees. Experiencing everything she saw, everything she tasted, everything she touched with very serious contemplation. Rolling over, and then sitting up, and then crawling, and now walking -- all as monumental as summiting Mount Everest. Some aspects of her personality I now realize have been there since the moment she was born: curious, observant, courageous, independent. She came out with her eyes wide open wanting to take in the world and she has always wanted to face out and be free to see and experience what's going on, not snuggle in. Her temperament has always been easy-going and she has been described as poised, soulful, with a deep peace in her eyes and presence by those who are around her regularly. But she does express her likes and dislikes! Eloise is hands down the best part of my life and I am so excited to continue on this journey as her mother in the years ahead.
Eloise continues to take a few solo steps at a time each day and seems to be pretty proud of herself.
Squeeeeee!
Just this morning we noticed that Eloise's top left tooth in the front has cut through her gums. She had a pretty rough night last night between early fireworks in the neighborhood and, apparently, a new tooth! The other top front tooth seems to be right behind.
On Tuesday Eloise and I met up with friends Erica and Terri and their kids Gus, Nora, and Finley at the Hood River U-Pick. We picked some raspberries. Admittedly, Eloise wasn't much help but she was cute company. Afterward we had a picnic lunch down by the waterfront in Hood River.
Taking a break under a cherry tree
And finally, I continually discover that Eloise understands more than I realize. Apparently she understands hugs!
Bunny love
I adore the picture of her under the cherry tree. The colors in her outfit and the blue chair. So precious. She's so sweet and what a fun year for you and Evan. Can't wait to celebrate the big "1"
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