Three

Three years ago our family changed forever.  I remember when I was pregnant with Leah I spent many moments wondering "what have I done?".  Kyle and Jillian were getting older and were such a good pair, playing together and getting along as good as siblings can.  Even strangers would ask me why I was having another child after hearing I had a son and daughter.  It just seemed to buck conventional wisdom to add more chaos into our lives.  All I knew is our family did not feel complete until Leah was born.  Being Kyle and Jillian's mommy certainly had me fulfilled (and busy!).  But the very instant Leah was born she had a special place in our family.  I remember giving birth in the evening and there was a little more time left in the hospital visiting hours.  So Jeff drove home fairly soon after Leah was born to bring my Mom, Kyle and Jillian to the hospital to meet Leah.  Kyle and Jillian were in love from the very moment they met her...

Leah has a great relationship with both Kyle and Jillian.  It's different with each of them though.  With Jillian, who is just slightly more than 3 years older, she has a fun playmate.  They both enjoy playing with Barbies, watching princess movies, doing arts and crafts and playing dressup.  Her relationship with Kyle is special because with a 7 year age gap there isn't any sort of sibling rivalry between them.  Kyle is always happy to carry her around and let her sit on his knee and he's always willing to help her out.

I can hardly believe the amazing little girl this baby has turned into.  Leah is caring, affectionate, confident, sweet, strong-willed, funny and loves to make everyone smile.  She loves Dora, her stuffed animals (especially her pink bunnies), baby dolls, soft blankets, dancing, gymnastics, and running around with her big brother and big sister.  She loves to be a part of whatever we are doing, even if she seems to be too young, she's happy to participate in whatever way possible. 

Happy Birthday Leah!