Happy Birthday Grace!

We were lucky enough 15 years ago to celebrate the birth of our 3rd child.  Almost 7 years younger than her sister and 4 years behind her brother...we weren't exactly prepared for having another baby (having gotten rid of pretty much everything except the crib!).

She entered the world via c-section on a date we chose.  Everyone anxious to meet her...the siblings who weren't quite sure what changes this new baby would bring, the grandparents who would be welcoming their last grandchild and the parents who knew that this little bundle would turn their world upside down.  We were officially outnumbered!  No longer a parent for each child.  They could overtake us now!

A calm and quiet baby progressed to a wild and adventurous toddler.  Determined to keep up with her older siblings, she talked early, walked early, picked her own outfits.  She had opinions from the start and wasn't afraid to share them.  Always planting herself in the middle of whatever was going on.

These personality traits have only strengthened as she has gotten older.  Other traits have come out as well. A champion of the underdog, she hates to see anyone left out.  She's a fierce friend and if she doesn't like someone, it most likely has to do with their treatment of others.  She's loving, honest (to a fault) and independent...not afraid to stand out and make her own way. She's sensitive, although many may not be aware of how easily she has her feelings hurt.

Even though she wouldn't admit or acknowledge it, she's artistic.  Taking pictures all the time with her polaroid, she has an eye for artistic shots.  She can sing (although you'll never hear her) and plays the guitar. She's wise beyond her years...the benefit of having 2 sibling a bit older than herself.  We've never censored music or books and she has read/listened to things that many her age have not.  This has led to many thinking she is wild (a point both her dad and I find funny).  We appreciate her ability to have independent thoughts and feelings.  We support her crazy obsessions...it makes life interesting and we know what an amazing young lady she is.

Fifteen years ago today we were lucky enough to celebrate the birth of Grace...the last piece of our family puzzle.

Happy Birthday Grace Isabella!