In early March of 2009, we learned that we were expecting another child. What?! Wow!? So soon after having Ella. So soon after having arrived in Australia. I was overwhelmed. I was joyful. Afraid. But eventually and ultimately confident that God, the giver of this gift, would also help us cope.
We welcomed our Noah just before 1am on October, 27th. And "just like that" three became four. Ella, with her chubby baby cheeks, barely weaned and with only signs to communicate, became a big sister, and we now had something other than pink to hang on the line!
Now our boy is 1 year old! He amazes us day after day. He challenges and blesses us all in the same breath! He is cheeky through and through. Knows what he wants and makes sure he is heard. He plays hard and is learning to sleep hard. He is absolutely adored by his big sister and works so hard to keep up with her. He has gorgeous blue eyes, and a beautiful laugh. He is boy to his core, is FAST and curious.
It would be a lie to pretend that the past year has been without challenges. They have been present in many forms. But the blessings have also been abundant. Colic is a distant memory. Sleep issues are beginning to resolve, and he's even back on the growth chart. We have a new (albeit sometimes messy) 'normal'. But we have a lot of fun, laughs and memories.
I'm glad that God works outside of my "box". Surprised? For sure! Close in age, hands on and exhausting? Ummm, YES! But I can honestly say I wouldn't choose to have things any other way.
First birthdays are a sweet time. A time to remember the miracle of life. To recall the sweetness of the newborn days. To delight in milestones. To hope in the future. And a time to eat cake. Sure love our Noah Kai!
First birthday cake - a tiger. Much suited to the little guys personality :-)
Eating wrapping paper
Capturing one of the first laughs
Growing and happy about it
Strong from early days
A favourite toy
Hmmm...up to something?
Love my boy
