Margaret x One

A year ago, two kids became three; a table for four needed a fifth chair; hand me downs got handed down, Bobby moved from crib to big boy bed, Mary went from a little girl to a big helper, I enthusiastically put away my maternity clothes, and we welcomed baby Margaret into our household.  

Today, she's one year old. One year that seemingly passed in the blink of an eye. One year that was far less documented or celebrated than Mary's or even Bobby's first. My mother in law and I were laughing last week about the comparative lack of bravado for Margaret's birthday party. Mary and Bobby had beautifully printed birthday invitations; Margaret got an Outlook invite. Sorry sweetie.


A lack of time is not a lack of love. And I'm sure she feels that adoration every day.


However, to give Margaret her deserving day in the sun, here is a snapshot, or rather shots, of who she, as she turns one year old today.


You are literally a (very heavy) bundle of joy.

You love your crib and your soft Little Giraffe blanket. And the combination thereof, as well as a big bottle before you go to bed, has always made you a great sleeper.


You light up when you see me, your Mom, first thing in the morning. And then you offer your Dad, brother and sister the same generous smile. So generous, that Bobby takes it as an invitation to jump right in your crib with you.


You love breakfast, snack, lunch, dinner, dessert bottles, basically any opportunity to eat. And you have THE best thighs because of it.


You love the water. You want to jump right into the pool, hate getting out of the bathtub, and didn't flinch when Bobby sprayed you with the hose.

Let's stay on that. You have Bobby as a brother. And you are already a tough little cookie because of it. But man, does he love, love, love you. You are the one force in this household, that can actually calm the storm sometimes, and it's amazing to watch.


Your sister also loves you to pieces. She loves when you come into her bed. She loves holding you. She's given you countless bottles. And she loves picking a matching dress to your outfit du jour. 'It's like we're twins,' she'll say.


Your hair turned very blond this summer - the blondest in our family.


You are walking, almost running now, to keep up with your brother and sister.

You love being pushed in the jogging stroller and going for bike rides.

You do this thing with your nose, crinkling it up, and snorting in and out. I don't know where you learned it, but it's hysterical.


When I travel for work, and you haven't seen me in a day or so, you give me the biggest hug, never wanting to let go, and it melts my heart.


Just like your Mimi, who shares your same name, you are strong, loving, and full of life.


Margaret, your Mommy and Daddy love you so very much. We hope you had a wonderful first birthday. From the pics, it looks like it didn't disappoint.











Lo.