FIVE!

It doesn’t seem so long ago that we packed our bags with unnecessary items, clueless as to what one really needs to have a baby, and headed to the hospital to evict & meet the goose. We had no idea what to expect, having taken no childbirth classes, and our only birthing plan was to do what we were told to do. Thirteen hours later, she arrived… (why is it people say you will forget the unfortunate details of labor??? That is a total lie!) and five years later… we are still clueless!

Each year brings new milestones, challenges and joys… some of them we expect and more than a few surprises too. This year was no exception.

We valiantly battled cdiff (more than once), and, for the time being, have conquered that foe. We’ve even managed to reduce our visits to our favorite GI, though it seems he will remain a part of our lives for the foreseeable future. Still, we rejoice at a year of less tests and less illness!

This year the goose has grown almost four inches, added a few pounds, expanded her vocabulary, learned to read, and gained a great deal of confidence and independence. There are no more tears when leaving Mommy’s side, though still a few when I return. But that’s ok… at least I know she’s had fun wherever she has been.

Though much more mature at five than four, the goose still LOVES babies… pretend and real. Her motherly instinct is quite strong and there is always enough love to go around. Until this year, all of her babies received names associated with their appearance, their giver, or the names of real babies she knew. This year however, dolls receive new names on a regular basis, much to the chagrin of Mommy & Daddy, for we are frequently scolded when we refer to the babes by their former names. For a brief stint, we were forced to veto some names as the made-up moniker came a bit too close to profanity (Pissco, for example). Thankfully, the goose ditched Deno, Cesco, and Only (pronounce Aun-lee)… for more socially acceptable names like Gracie, Grace, Mary Grace, and so forth. Still, I will always cherish Pretty Baby, Necked Baby, Big Baby, Tiny Baby, Laughing Baby & The-Baby-Amanda-Gave-Me.

Of course the biggest event of her fifth year was becoming a big sister. She loves Sissy with all her heart, and I pray that lasts forever. She is a great helper, playmate, comedian, and cheerleader. What more could a little sister (or Mama) ask for?

Evidently Sissy, Daddy & I do not provide enough companionship for the Goose, for she has invented several imaginary kids. Currently the roster includes Linda, London, and Lindsey. These three must be referred to as her “kids”… not her “friends” or “daughters,” and “They are not imaginary! I’m pretending that they are real.”

Yes, we remain clueless. What the next year holds only God knows, but I do know this… as long as we have this silly goose… there will be laughter. Happy Birthday!