Isla is One

While we were in Mex'co (says Liam) Isla turned one year old! It was a beautiful Friday, with sun and swim and sleep and selebration (har har). We took her to the resort restaurant on the beach and ate really good Mexican fare that did not make us sick. Isla particularly enjoyed Grandma Connie's margarita and one very sour lemon slice. After dinner we went back to the room and did the whole present/cake bit. Her thoughtful grandparents and aunt made sure she had some cute girly toys even though her parent's neglected to pack any in their suitcases. She loved the doll and doll highchair set so much she tried to squeeze her fatty foot in it. No Isla, you did not fit.

I feel like I want to write a little message for my girl, but everything that comes to mind is inadequate. As cliche as that is. We love her so much, as any parent loves their child. But I just feel so lucky to have her as my own. She snuggles into me and pats my back gently with her chubby palm. She is free with her giggles and even offers a hilarious forced laugh when others laugh just so she fits in. She loves people in such a real way, and the best word to describe her love is intense. Her spirit is so apparent and available. I really feel like I loved and took care of her before this life, and maybe I did? I don't know. But I do know I will love her for the rest of forever. And when she is grown and independent, when it is actually unhealthy for me to rescue and enable, it will take me going against the visceral grain to not do it all for her.

Birthday girl pictures . . .