2,557 Days of Love

 Sweet sweet baby, please come soon. I know you’ll come when you’re ready. Okay, seriously sister, let’s get things moving. These were my constant thoughts as I waited for Nola to arrive. For those of you who don’t know, Nola waited for 14 days past her due date to make her arrival. She was born at home with a midwife and the Curate and me. 

Soon after her birth I realized she was the spunkiest, chubbiest, love of a human who would be such a wonderful person. Literally she had the most whitest fuzz of hair. She maintained that hair as she grew and it was lovely. Like an angelic little halo that was firmly held in place by the mischievous side and dimples for days. 

Nola has always been my wild one. Fearless. She proudly refused pants for a shirt, diaper, and the teeniest mucking boots you’ve ever seen. She gives no mind to those who do not understand her but loves so much that all those who meet her can feel that love. She  has such a big and joyful personality. 

These last two years she has grown so much. She is learning who she is and what she wants. We are so fortunate to have a large circle of people who support whatever that might look like in the future. 

Sweet Nono meatball, keep making your own rules. Never let a label define you. Just as I’ve told you from the start, I’ll love you no matter what. I hope you enjoy your day. Only you would pick Christmas themed cupcakes for their birthday, you know I love it. The next time I see you, you’ll be a super star 7 year old. Mischief, mayhem, meat nugget, fairy ear, and nosey nose. Happy Birthday 🎈 

The last of the Fab 4 turns 5

 Dillon Elizabeth, 

You are truly an enigma wrapped in a riddle, slathered in sass. You were supposed to be our last, our baby, forever. You came into this world exactly as you pleased, and from the second you were able, you let your sass shine. You've lived a lot in these last 5 years. You were born Nevadan but quickly embraced all things Texas with a nice Mississippi drawl, thanks to dear friends. You were our baby DD who coined the term "hateful and rude." You have always had that Callen glimmer in your eye and a personality bigger than the state of Texas. Never shy. Always has an opinion ABOUT EVERYTHING. And you milk that you are my last baby girl. From your bouncing curls to your inquisitive questions, you are a unique soul who would hug you and, in the next breath, kick you in the shins if you hurt someone she loves. I was a little worried when little Harrison was to arrive, but you poured love on him from the moment he was born. I pity the person who breaks his heart because, as you told me just days ago, "mama, you know what they call it when you give em a little thunder and a little lightning....you get some DD." You are so right, ma'am. You cannot wait to go to Kindergarten next year and learn all the things. You've had amazing teachers thus far. You are a natural charmer. I cannot wait to watch you grow up. Continue to be the sasshole I know you are. Use your strength to shelter others and lift them up. Remember that you're never too old for the Daniel Tiger words of wisdom. And give the world a whole lot of shine. I have never really worried about you because of all my children, you can hold all your own. Tough but sensitive. I love you, my sweet soon to be a 5-year-old girl. I love you from the top of your hairs to the tips of your toes. Be bright. 

Love you my forever baby,

Mama