Happy birthday, Lindsay

A year ago today, you were born kicking and screaming.

It's equally hard for me to believe that 365 days have passed, as it is that you haven't just always been here. My very serious observer, perched on my hip, seems to take it all in. Now, occasionally, you offer a throaty laugh, or an emphatic babble.

You're still an enigma wrapped in a riddle for me. You have an instant attachment to all things knit, prefer to be placed in your crib with no ceremony at nap and bed times, and can't stand to be changed. From our early first days at home, you loved to sleep, and still do. Our morning nap has been eliminated for longer overnight sleep times - sometimes you sleep from 8 PM to 10 AM.

Lately, you've been learning by leaps and bounds. You've said "Hi there" and "bye!", "Mama", "Dada", and "down". You know all the hand gestures for Itsy Bitsy Spider, and when to clap for When You're Happy and You Know It. You've stood up a few times, but haven't attempted a step yet. I imagine, as with everything else, this will happen entirely on your schedule. And you'll give me that look you always do that says, "I could always do this. I just decided to now."

I love you, Lindsay. Happy birthday!