dear baby girl

Dear Story,

Thank you, my sweet girl, for smiling and cooing and being so downright lovable when mommy is totally pooped and ready to throw in the towel (or wipe).  By now, you know you were born into a zoo.  But this zoo utterly adores you.  It may be loud, but it's always entertaining.  You'll never be bored.  That's a promise.  

You're the happiest in the morning (and generally every time you wake up from a nice long nap).  You grace us all with the biggest of smiles and we can't help but grin besottedly back (this night owl who is certainly not bright and chipper at ungodly hours of the morning included).  I love, love, love holding you close, rocking and nursing you as often as I can.  It's peaceful holding you.  Don't tell anyone else, but sometimes I stay in your room, rocking you extra long, just to soak in some much needed rest.  You don't seem to mind.  

Your daddy hogs you when he gets home from work, though.  He doesn't put you down.  You fall asleep every night on his chest.  Your brothers and sister are nuts about you, too.  Legend gives you a thousand kisses a day and whenever you cry he whispers, "oooooh, Story, iss okay, iss okay".  Astair loves to dress, and hold, and bathe you.  She's the best big sister in the whole wide world.  Thad and Boston are such proud big brothers and they are always looking out for you.

Sometimes there's six people in your face at once, all vying to get one of your coveted smiles.

You've brought such sweet joy to us all.

We love you to distraction,

Your Very Own Zoo