Thoughts on your first birthday

Dear Lucas,

A year ago, you came into our world with a bang.  You had your own pre-determined schedule and you were sticking to it.  Now, 365(ish) days later, not much has changed.

You actually started out as a pretty chill baby.  I think you slept about 23 hours a day after you were discharged from your 9 day stay in the NICU.  You fit into our family easily and you were adored by all; especially your brother and sister.

As you sped through the months, your easy-going nature continued.  And then, everything changed... I don't know if it was when you learned to crawl, or if it was teething that sent you into an eternal angst-spiral, but ermahgerd child... simmer down!

If you want something, you WANT it.  And telling you "no" leads to wailing and gnashing of your three teeth (that may or may not be the culprits of your 'tude).  I guess what I'm saying is that you are one determined little dude.  Even though some days it makes me tear my hair out, I do love watching you crawl at warp speed towards the open front door, that unfaltering smile on your face as you are single-minded in your quest for freedom.  And no matter how close I am to that door, or how far away you are... still you make a break for it; one time even getting all the way out only to sit and munch on a leaf you found on our walkway before I caught up to you.

Speaking of eating strange stuff... once you learn to talk, I will be asking you what's up with that?  Paper, markers, leaves, dog fur, candy wrappers, Polly Pocket heads, Lego, rocks... those are just some of the items I have fished out of your cute little kisser. It doesn't matter how thorough I am at scanning the floor for these tiny torture devices, you still seem to find them.  Just stop eating them!

Having said all that, you are also one of the sweetest little snugglers a Mama could ever ask for.  I don't think there's a better feeling in the world than picking you up and feeling you wiggle into your perfect cuddling position.  I love how you light up when you see me, and even though it hurts my ears, your wailing as I walk away is a total ego-boost.  And yes, I even love those open-mouthed, drool-fest kisses you give.  And sometimes?  I don't even wipe my cheek afterwards.

This year we had a grand birthday planned for you.  People!  Coming to our house!  Food!  Cake! Friends!(as you grow older, you'll get that this is a big deal, your Mama hates being a hostess).  Then the ice hit the fan.  Er, the ground.  Everything was frozen over and people were stuck in their houses.  By the day of your party, things were a bit better and some people managed to make it.  Actually, it was perfect... right down to your face as we sang Happy Birthday to you and your expression when you had your first taste of cupcake.

Just like last year, your birthday was not boring.  But let's not make this a thing, okay?  It's hard on your Mama.

Happy Birthday my doodle.  I love you so much and can't wait to see what this next year has in store for you!

Hello there, 5!

Dear Lucas,

I figured it's about time I wrote you one of these.  After all, your sister got one every month for her first year (though they're not posted on this blog).  Mattias also got them every three months or so. Now it's your turn.  I promise you it wont always be this way often-overlooked-third-child.  Would it help if I secretly told you that you're my favourite?

All joking aside, you kinda are.  Let's face it... you're adorable (okay, the other two are as well), but you don't talk back.  Or tell me no.  Or give me attitude.  You seem to get that silence is golden, and... your poop doesn't smell bad.

I thought I'd start with today, because for many reasons, it's pretty special.  First off, it's your Uncle Marc's birthday.  You met him a few weeks ago and seemed to like him, even though the thought of changing your diaper made him gag.

Secondly, it is your 5th monthaversary.  It seems unbelievable that you have been around for that long.  Yesterday, I saw a mom with a newborn and it seemed to me that you still should be exactly that size; all tiny and snugly.  I love the stage you're in, but I do miss those milk-coma days.

But most importantly, exactly one year ago today, I found out that you were on your way to bless our family.  I remember being so scared, not because you were coming, but because there were signs that I was going to loose you.  I had known about you for less than 24 hours, yet I was already so in love with the idea of you that I could barely breathe.

But here you are; 365 days later.  A perfect fit into this crazy family of ours. You are such a lovely baby and you are so loved. I can't wait to see what this life has in store for my wonderful third-born.

Love,
Your Mama