To our Elise on your 1st birthday (along with her one-year pictures!)

Dear Elise Faye,

Or as we lovingly refer to you, "Sissy" or "Lisey." You are such a joy to be around! Everyone who knows you cannot get over how easy-going you are...guess that comes along with being the third-born :-)

You have been pretty laid back since the day you were born...until you learned to crawl and cruise. And, now, you are constantly ON THE MOVE! And I thought your brothers were busy; you are sure giving them a run for their money!

You brothers simply adore you! Sure, there are moments that they realize you are coming after their toys, pulling their skin or hair, but they get over it quickly, especially after they see your toothy grin :-) You will be greatly protected by them, whether you want to be or not! I cannot wait to see your sibling relationships throughout the years ahead.

Some say you resemble Jameston, with your serious face and blue eyes. I can definitely see resemblances in your eyes and nose. But you and Blake definitely favor each other with your smile, cheeks and lips. What a perfect combo all three of you are!

But I do wish Father Time would slow down a bit! The newborn and baby stages seem like they goes by in a blink of an eye..and now you're ONE! How did that happen?! It seems like it was just yesterday we were headed to the hospital to find out if you were a little girl or boy, since we knew you would complete our family. It is hard to remember what life was like before you were born. You are the perfect addition and puzzle piece to our family unit!

It has been such a joy and blessing to have a daughter, and I pray that I can be the mother you need me to be...especially during the teenage years :-) I look forward to many discussions about life, love and everything in between (and shopping trips and pedicures of course :-)

And your Daddy? Watching him with you, I just melt. Not knowing if we would have a little brother or sister the night before you were delivered, I asked him his thoughts. He said, "Another little boy would be great, since I am one of three brothers. But I would love to and be so lucky to have a daughter." Swoon. I just sit back and watch him with you and take in the immense joy you bring all of us!

Elise,
You light up our lives in a way we could never imagine. Our hearts grew with love when you joined our family! We cannot wait to watch you grow, learn, and become the little girl God created you to be. We love you to the moon and back (and back again), Lisey Faye!

Love, Mommy, Daddy, Bubba, and Bubby

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