Birthday Girl

Miss Phoebe Dahlia is one!

Oh, Bubbadoo, we can't get enough of your sweetness. It blows our minds and hearts that you've only been here for one year (although how did that fly by so quickly!) since you fit so naturally and so effortlessly into our hearts and lives. Happy Birthday, Moonbeam. We love you so.

Okay, so that was the sweet message. This is the exasperated Mama message - Phoebe was so sick last night during her birthday dinner, she couldn't stay awake. She's been hit hard with a rough ear and chest infection, and the poor babe was in sorry shape. Stella was a fabulous big sister, giving her gentle hugs and encouragement, helping her by opening her presents. (Thanks to Stella for picking out a new cuddle for Phoebe. Good thinking, big sister!) But despite feeling so sad that Phoebe spent her first birthday feeling so punk, I also felt like it was a gift to just hold her all day and all night. Both Brian and I kept glancing at each other with a sense of contentment and purpose that reminded both of us of why we chose to be parents. It's not about the presents, the cuteness, the milestones, the hullabaloo or even the memories that we will have (or not have depending on how tired we are). It's about being in the moment and making sure that moment is rooted in love. So happy birthday, sweet Phoebe. We love you beyond words and will hold you, comfort you and love you as long as you like.