Kate: One Year Later

Our baby turns one today.  Here are some things that describe our favorite Miss Kate:

Physical stats:

About 22 pounds; 29 inches;  size 18 months clothes; size 4 shoes; double chin and dimples; dark blond hair (barely long enough for piggies); six teeth (four top, two bottom, working on molars).

Special skills: Walking full-time; standing up on her own; climbing up and down stairs; sleeping through the night; eating mostly what we eat; drinking whole milk (still from a bottle); folding arms for prayer; clapping; playing peek-a-boo; saying mama, dad, hi; signing more.

Likes: Milk; fruit; corn; animal and graham crackers; pasta; binky; Hopscotch (bunny); books; Lexi's doll house; dress-up necklaces; baby dolls; swinging; being outdoors; riding in the stroller; Mom's phone; taking baths; older sibling entertainment.

Dislikes: Hats; shoes; socks; car seat; being confined; having her diaper changed; being left behind.

...

This morning Kate opened her presents just after 7:00 a.m.  She had lots of help, of course.  We got her a wagon and a few one-year-old essentials: socks, a toothbrush, and rubber bands for her hair.  The kids gave her sippy cups, a doll, toddler snacks, and an outfit.  Grandma and Grandpa Bartle sent a check for Kate's savings account, and Granny and Gramps sent a doll stroller and a few accessories.  So far, Kate is delighted with everything, but especially the baby doll. 

Kate has truly lived up to her middle name, bringing us daily joys that we never thought possible.  I can hardly believe it's been a year since she was born.  I read her birth story this morning and felt like it all happened just yesterday.  Happy birthday, little girl!