We have now been home for one year. Man, how time flies! In some ways it seems like just yesterday we were strapping our little, 4lb 13oz baby into her car seat to head home. I remember how tiny she looked. Her car seat seemed to swallow her up! We were full of so many emotions: excitement, happiness, nervousness, and of course there was sadness, too. We never could have dreamed that Marleigh would do so well once we got home. She did have some tummy troubles, but I would gladly take that over some of the other issues she could have. God has richly blessed us!
A friend of mine has a little boy, and he was talking about his "hero" (some cartoon character that I'm not familiar with). I was asking him about it, and he asked who my hero is. I told him it is Marleigh. He giggle and said, "a baby can't be a hero!" But she is. She has been through so much in her short life, and has taken it all in stride. She had such a will to live from the get go, and has the happiest attitude. She never ceases to amaze me at what she has accomplished in the past year. Everyday she is learning something new. Marc and I could not be any prouder of our beautiful daughter.
~~
Speaking of learning something new.... Marleigh now blows kisses. I'll tell her, "Mommy's going bye-bye, blow me kisses." She'll put her little hand up to her mouth, smack, and then blow the kiss (okay, so she doesn't physically blow, but she extends her arm). It just melts my heart!
~~
I am so excited for what the next year will have in store for our family. We have big plans this summer for plenty of pool time as well as going to the lake with Papa and Grandma! We also have trips planned to Missouri to see Marc's oldest sister, Michaela, and her family, as well as to KC so that Marleigh can watch her first Royals game! :)
I know we have said it many times before, but we are so grateful for such supportive family and friends. I don't know how we would have made it the past 15 months without all of you! Oh, and if you would like, leave a comment, please. Last year about this time, I printed out Marleigh and Natalie's caringbridge website for Marleigh to have as a keepsake. I plan on doing that every year. Kind of as a baby book/journal/keepsake for Marleigh. So, if you would, leave a little comment for Miss Marleigh! Thanks!
Marleigh,
ReplyDeleteYou continue to amaze me everyday!!! :) You are very strong-willed!!! You are also a very loved little girl!!! I love watching you grow up through pictures and this blog!! It's great for all of us who don't live close!! Love you very much!!!
Hugs and Kisses,
Aunt Moni
Hello Marleigh,
ReplyDeleteWe are so blessed to have you as our granddaughter. It is fun to see you grow right under our noses--every day you learn something new. By having this blog we are able to keep up with your many new achievements since we do not get to spoil you very often. We love you so much. Hope to see you soon. Sending love, hugs, and kisses!!!!!
Grandma & Papa J.
What a year! Here's to many more wonderful memories for your family!
ReplyDeleteJulinne & Andy
Dear Marleigh,
ReplyDeleteI would like to start by saying what an honor and joy it has been to be a part of your life. I look forward to seeing you every morning (as does Mason). Our days are filled with smiles, laughter and snuggles. In the blink of an eye, it's time for you to go home and I find myself already thinking about seeing you in the morning. You are the closest thing I will ever have to a daughter. If I would have had one of my own, I would have wished her to be just like you. You have the sweet spirit of an angel, a laugh that makes me laugh and snuggles that just melt my heart. My boys love you as much as if you were our very own and I know they will always look out for you. It has been so fun to watch you take notice of the world around you. You are learning something new all the time! You are a smart little girl with determination to be admired. I hope you know how much I love you!
~Jenni
Marleigh--Who would have guessed that a short year later, that tiny fragile baby would grow into such a happy, amazing, healthy, beautiful little girl?! Look how far you've come!!! I know it wasn't an easy year by any means for your mommy and daddy, but I also think it was ten times more than anyone expected. You have surpassed all expectations and have simply THRIVED. I know that when you're old enough to understand everything, you'll agree that your heroes have been there since day one: your mom and dad. They're heroes to me and I know that without them, you wouldn't be where you are now. We love you baby girl and can't wait to see what the future holds for you.
ReplyDeletelove, Aunt Michaela, Uncle Ryan, Reese and Keira
Miss Marleigh
ReplyDeleteHow we enjoy the times we get to see you and play with you! You are one of the happiest babies I know. When you are old enough we will be sure to tell you why mommy & daddy call me Jeff! I can't wait for you to meet our little one and be able to play together. Marleigh you must know that you have wonderful parents and they love you with every fiber in their being. Natalie will always be a part of your heart. Stay strong and happy little girl, oops BIG GIRL!
Love
Brian & Jess (Jeff)