October 14, 2012 at 9:25 p.m.
You gave us 25 minutes’ notice before you made your entrance into the world, leaving no time for an epidural or, you know, a hospital gown. You wanted us to know from the start that you were going to be different. You were going to be special. You were going to be noticed.
And over the course of the last year, you have been all of that and more.
Yes, you are the second child, which means you aren’t held 22 out of the 24 hours in a day like your sister was when she was your age. Sometimes, you eat the Cheerios that have been under the table for a week. Sometimes, you get second-hand toys and second-hand clothes. Sometimes, you cry longer than I would like because someone else’s needs are coming first. Your baby book isn’t done purchased.
Yes, you are second, but only in birth order…not in my heart, not in my life. There is no competition with regards to my love for you and your sister. You are both first. And yes, there is such a thing, because I’m a mom, and all of my children, no matter how many, will be “first” to me.
You have balanced our family. You have made us whole. We have stared at you for probably what would amount to many, many hours while you have slept (is that creepy? sorry).
Charlotte, a name that makes me smile upon saying it. A name that seems sweetly Southern, yet midwestern and true. A name that connotes relaxing with a glass of apple cider on a perfect Fall day.
And let’s not forget about your middle name. Scout. The perfect Tomboy compliment to your first name. Your alter-ego. With a name like Scout…you’re going to do great things. The right things.
You have taken over 10,000,000 breaths in your first year of life, but your first breath changed me forever.
Happy birthday to you.
