Jack Valiant

Yesterday we celebrated the birthday of my youngest nephew, Jack.  He is such a precious guy!

I have to say, I love my niece and both of my nephews... but Jack and I have a special connection.  I think it's because we're both "thirds."  I didn't really appreciate how significant being a "third" was until I read Ender's Game.  And it's hard to articulate, but it's something special.  On top of being "thirds," I'm pretty sure Jack will end up as one of, if not the, middle child.  (I'm here for you, Jack!).  So, yes, because of birth order and probably several other reasons yet unknown,  this little man and I have an extra something.  It's not exclusive... it's just special.

Here's a look back at Jack's first year.  [All pictures were taken from iPhone or Melissa's blog.]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Happy 1 year, Jack Valiant :)

This is the best.

Happy Birthday Miss Ida Marie!!

You are such a gift. I'm grateful beyond words for you, my dear.

One year ago today =)

Christmas tree hunting

Beautiful girlie! 

Love you, my little, girlie friend!

Happy 1st!

auntie love

Miss Ida Marie Baker... I can't wait to meet you!

We're going to have really fun dates!

I'm going to take you on shopping trips and to get your nails done.

I'll buy you hot chocolate and take you to the park.

You can ask for underdogs and piggy-back rides.

I'll read lots of books to you and make sure

the library is a happy place with lots of fond memories.

I'll take you to fun movies in the summer

and to the Nutcracker at Christmas

Feel free to always show me your twirly dresses.

We'll cuddle a lot--when you're teeny-tiny and when you're older.

You can create lots of artwork for my room.

I'll let you walk in my heels and dresses so you can feel older.

You can help fix my dress right before

you walk down the aisle as my flower girl.

May can't come fast enough...

But until then, just know that I love you tons and tons!

Auntie Samara

Dear little Rossy,
I love you so incredibly much and can hardly wait to meet you!!!
I hope these next couple weeks go by fast!
I want to get to know you so badly--to finally see what you look like
and to hold you and to look into your wide eyes!
Ahh! Would you just come already? I'm dying to know you!
I'll love you forever and like you for always,
Auntie Samara

Come Spring...

Come Spring, I will be holding Baby Baker!!! My very own little niece or nephew!

April can't come soon enough!