.lucy estelle.

I, by no means, am a newborn photographer. There are so many photographers out there that have so much talent in this area, so for the most part, I will leave the babies to them. But, when there is a babe born that is near and dear to my heart, I really can't help myself. Lucy is one of those such babes. Lucy's mom, Estelle, is my long time best friend. Our friendship has covered so much ground, we could literally write a novel (trust me, we already have chapters named). One thing we have in common is a journey through infertility. So, this makes Lucy extra special. Although I couldn't be there for her birth (I don't think I put my phone down the day she was born), me and my two oldest girls were able to come visit in early December. Lucy's big sister, Claire (another extra-special girl)  fell ill that morning, so although the day didn't go exactly as we mommas had planned, I managed to get a few pictures and plenty of  sweet snuggles. Lucy...you are an absolute gift from God, and oh, so loved!

. the big sister, Claire ...poor sick girl .

. and then it was back to sleep...sweet dreams Lucy Goosey .

a year of anna...

I could write a book about this sweet baby of mine. This time last year, I was snuggling the three hour old bundle of fresh, teeny, preciousness. A little girl we had not planned for, but she was meant just for us...and a life without her is something I can't even imagine. I was chatting with family on the weekend about this past year, and raising baby number three. I was feeling a little sad, and emotional about her impending birthday, and knowing that she is my last baby. The difference with Anna, is that I finally seemed to get it with her. Not that there wasn't tired days, or small frustrations, but the overall feeling that marks her first year is JOY. All the unknowns and hesitancies as a first and even second time parent seemed to disappear. My schedule was loosened, my mind more relaxed, and my baby...so loved. Instead of worrying about timing, and feedings and all the details, I was free to enjoy...and I SO enjoyed this year. The reason this post wasn't written last night, is because my birthday gal woke up at 9:30pm crying and sick...and I got to snuggle her to sleep. I can count on one hand the number of times I have been able to do that in the last 6 months (little miss likes her bed only), and though I hated that she was sick, I loved being able to snuggle her little sleeping body that is usually non-stop on the move. A little gift for this mama.

 

Here is a peek back at our year getting to know this precious little girl that completes our family so perfectly. Happy Birthday, my sweet Anna Grace....I love you so....

 

{her one year portraits below...party pics to follow sometime soon}