A new year

Today was Thea's birthday. As we neared 11 a.m. when she was born, I could not help but go back in time a bit and remember her birth. The thing that stands out the most for me is the feeling of pride that I had managed it - the pain, the need to get her out quickly, the craziness of the whole situation. I remember thinking I had a dream team of providers. I remember the wonder of seeing this beautiful little girl, whose spirit was obvious from the first breath she took.

I also remember worrying about Liam, how he was coping with the whole situation. Especially the second night when they made Thea and I stay while he and Matt went home. I'm sure I was hormonal like crazy, but that was an intense feeling of fear and sadness. But we made it through. And Liam is fine, and more recently, I have begun to see how having a sister is an enriching experience for him, though he may not realize it for years to come.

Thea had a great day today, although it was almost entirely napless. She got up at 7:30, took a 1-hour nap from 12 to 1 and went to bed at 7. Hope that's not a new leaf, because I can't imagine that working well for anyone. But today it was fine. We had our friend's 2-year-old over in the morning, and Liam had a play-date in the afternoon, so she had company to bat her eyelashes at pretty much all day. She got to skype with her grandma, too, and play in the bathtub as long as she wanted. Pretty much, I'd say she had a stellar day. Liam and I sang her happy birthday at dinner, which she also enjoyed.

As I put her peacefully to bed, I found myself wondering what amazing things were in store for Thea during her second year as we work to iron out her diet issues and embrace and parent her engaging but spirited personality. All I can think is - what fun!