Giselle is 15 Months Old

Dear Giselle,

Here we are... 15 months now... Daddy and I have been talking and we both agree that this age is our favorite age. You are so sweet and loving and nothing makes us more proud than to see the pride in your eyes as you discover and learn new things. Thankfully, we are blessed enough to teach you new things, support your interests and witness that glimmer in your eyes daily. 

You brighten every day with your grin and deep belly giggles. You are mommy’s girl, have a timid side, but also a very silly side if someone new is lucky enough to witness it, have a fierce determination to learn and be big like your big sister, you're a bit clumsy, a walking talking parrot repeating so much of what we say and above all you are loving - so incredibly loving. You will stop what you're doing, run over to us and give us the biggest hugs. Our laps are never empty and my hips seem to always have those sweet chubby legs around them. You still idolize your sister. She’s your absolute best friend. Anything Emeline is doing, you try to mimic. You love playing babies - you're the sweetest little mommy to all of your dolls, always kissing and cuddling them just as we do you. You enjoy swinging and sliding at the park, going on walks, loving on Oskar and George, reading, playing with musical toys, mastering your shape sorter, playing dress-up with Eme and eating - that might be your favorite pastime (still). You have such a kind heart and loving disposition that we know without a shadow of a doubt, you will be an incredible role model and big sister one day. I say that, because this month we submitted our application for our next Baby Simpson! One day, in the not too distant future, you will be a big sister. That baby will be so blessed to have your love and affection one day. I know we are. 

Here is a peek into your world from 13 - 15 months old:

• 13 Months, your favorite word was 'happy'. You would say, 'happy', 'happy', 'happy' over and over and over. That heart of yours is pure and joyous always. 
• 13 Months - As of December 14, 2 days shy of your 14 month birthday, you became a full fledged walker. A very clumsy walker that is, but an adorable marching baby girl. You have had a few spills, one in particular where your sweet nose kissed the concrete on a walk, but you are okay and have learned your body more and more each day. The doctor said you will be a little clumsy for awhile as you learn how to control your body. You are so tall and top heavy to boot, so it's a little harder for you sweet girl. I do my very best to support and protect you, but you are also striving to be so independent so it's a delicate balance for us both. We've got this!
• 13 Months - you can sign, milk, thank you, please, more, and eat. I think we'll leave it at that, because you are a talking toddler now. 
• 13 Months - You met your first crush - he was tall, dark and handsome like daddy. You even blushed when he approached you after noticing you were staring at him. It was hilarious!
• 13 Months -You love princesses and pulled off the most beautiful Cinderella I've ever seen for Halloween. 
• 13 Months - You love reading and be read to so much. I often find you sneaking away to your book basket and searching for the perfect read for that moment. When you want me to read to you, you say, 'a book'. We have books in every room and some in the car too because you are always perusing them. 
• 13 Months - you yell 'MAMA!' all day every day and honestly there was a time I never thought I would be a mama, so I embrace it and love every single 'mama' that comes out of you and your sister's mouths. 
• 13 Months - before you could walk, you grabbed onto my legs and held on for dear life as I walked around the house. I was your walker. 
• 14 Months - we celebrated Thanksgiving and your favorite part of the day aside from the yummy food was the Pie In The Face game. We have the cutest video of you getting a 'pie' in the face and you thought it was hilarious. It was. 
• 14 Months - You and your sister have been sharing so sweetly. She needs a little talking to every once in awhile, but you share with her every single time. That heart of yours...
• 14 Months - You met Santa and you were terrified. Absolutely terrified. You had hives from crying. Sorry baby...
• 14 Months - We saw lots and lots of Christmas lights this year and you were mesmerized. I loved seeing the magic in your eyes this holiday season. 
• 14 Months - Your second Christmas flew by in a flash, but it was so magical. I loved watching you figure out how to open presents and I so loved seeing the joy in your eyes as you loved every single present. Especially your babies. 
• 14 Months - The day after Christmas, we took you to California to see Daddy's entire family for the first time. You were timid and didn't really embrace them, so we made sure to have fun times with just the four of us while we were there so that you felt comfortable. I really thought you might open up to them, but you didn't. No pressure. Next time hopefully you will because they sure love you. 
• 14 Months - you had your first dentist appointment. You hated it and cried the entire time, but you did walk away with a healthy pearly white smile and clean bill of health.
• 14 Months - you are really loving learning animal noises and you can makes the cutest lion roar. It's raspy and deep and so adorable. You can also 'baa' like a sheep, 'hee haw' like a donkey, 'moo' like a cow, 'meow' like a cat and 'woof' like a dog. 
• 14 Months - You absolutely love sliding down slides with mommy. Even the steep ones we fly off of. The steeper, the faster, the more fun for you. You giggle with glee the whole way down. 
• 14 Months - You love playing dress-up with sister and you choose a princess outfit and tiara every time. Surprisingly enough, you keep the tiara on for a long time. Every time it falls, you have me put it right back on. 
• 14 Months - You have a favorite baby and it's the absolute creepiest baby I've ever seen, but you love her so. This baby sucks a paci and open and closes her eyes and even says 'knock knock' to which you repeat her. Of all the babies you could love, you choose her. We'll just go with it and let you be you. 
• 15 Months - You have learned to really not like the doctor. Those visits are hard for both of us. You cry uncontrollably from the moment we are put in a room until the moment they leave you alone. As soon as the doctor is done messing with you, you bury yourself in my chest and all is finally well in your world. Those are tough moments on my heart. You were kicking and screaming when you were being weighed and measured, so we are unsure of the accuracy of your numbers, but here they are - Weight - 25 lbs Height - 32"
• 15 Months - When you want to be held, you say, 'I want dow' and when you want down, you say, 'I want dow'. You can say up and hold me, but you prefer, 'I want dow'. I won't argue with you. You're right. I get you. 
• 15 Months - you have mastered your shape sorter and can put every shape in it's corresponding hole. We are so proud! You love this toy too!
• 15 Months - Your bond with Oskar has been strong from the beginning. One of your first words was 'bubba', then quickly went to 'Ockie' at 13 months and then a week later, you could pronounce a perfect sounding 'Oskar'. You yell his name from all over the house when you are missing him and he actually embraces your love and cuddles when you find him. 
• 15 Months - we baked jam together just the two of us for the very first time and you absolutely loved it. I try and make you and Emeline a part of my cooking as you both love it. Thank goodness to whoever invented the learning tower so that you can help at my level!
• 15 Months - your favorite word is 'no'. It's your answer to every question even when you mean yes. 
• 15 Months - You are my biggest helper in everything I do. You pull clothes out of the dryer for me and you put your silverware in the dishwasher already. You also mess up folded clothes and take everything out of the dishwasher, but the point is, you are right be my side as I complete every chore around here. You even like to wipe down the table with wipes. 
• 15 Months - Every time we give you positive reinforcement, you throw that little hand of yours up for a high five. It's my favorite and I hope you never stop. 
• 15 Months - you learned how to climb up the steps and go down the slide all by yourself at the park. Press repeat 15 times and that is our day at the park. 
• 15 Months - Giselle Laine, you have started quite a habit. Just about every time you take a bath with your sister or shower with me, you poop in the water. I will say, I'm ready for that phase to pass...
• 15 Months - Your speech is unreal. The amount of words you can say must be in the 50s. It's unbelievable how well you can articulate and how much you can say. Here are just a few, 'baby', 'bye-bye now' (don't know where you got that one), 'cheese', 'cheers', 'Eme', 'Mommy', 'Daddy', 'Oskar', 'Gee' (George), 'cockie' (cookie), 'sissy', 'up', 'hold me', 'milk', 'I want...', 'peas' (please), 'thank you', 'hi (insert mimi, poppa, mommy or daddy', 'uh-oh', and so so many more words. Will update as I can, but you are waking from your nap.
• 15 Months - You can now put two and three word sentences together and your favorite phrases are, 'I want milk', 'I want down', 'I want more' - you get it, you are quite demanding. But you do end your demands with a 'peas' and 'tank you'. 

I'm going to kiss your sweet 15 month face and count my blessings because you are one of my biggest and most treasure blessings in this life. You always will be. If you only knew the depth of my love...

Love you more,

Mommy, Daddy and Emeline

(Oskar and George too!)

Giselle is ONE Year Old

Dear Giselle, 

We made it. Can you believe it? Our baby girl is one year old today. I have huge lump in my throat and tears streaming down my face as I write this. My heart is just so full of love and gratitude for you and your birth mom. She chose us. We had the most beautiful year because of your birth mom. Because she entrusted us with your life. Watching you grow, learn and thrive day after day on this beautiful journey has been nothing short of incredible. You are such a gift. Such a rare treasure. You've been the best baby. Always sweet, always loving and truly always happy. 

I don’t want this time to pass. I don’t want my baby to grow up, but you must. I haven’t let a day pass me by that I don’t stop, breathe you in and think of your birth mom. It’s far too early for you to understand, but when we talk about adoption with Emeline, we tell both of you your story too. Emeline knows of your adoption story and she knows of your birth mom. And soon enough, you will be proud of your story just like your big sister is. We will always love and honor your birth mom in our home.We love her so much and think of her every day. We have this incredibly gorgeous and silly reminder of her tugging on our legs to pick you up daily. You are still happiest in my arms and I often think of your birth mom when holding you and when you feel an extra squeeze it's just for her. 

If I could summarize with just one word how this last year has been, I would simply say - joyful. You radiate joy; with everything you do and everything you are. You brighten every day. I know in my heart of hearts that you will grow to be a perpetually happy, joyful and positive person. Actually, your heart and soul very much remind me of your birth mom. We only met her once, but I feel like I've always known her. And from what I saw, I can only hope you grow to have her demeanor and outlook on life. 

And now, here’s a peek into your world at 12 months old:

• You LOVE music.  I read recently that babies were born to love music.  Putting your music on in the car instantly soothes you. You move to the beat, bob your head and clap.  We have recently started a Tiny, Tots and Tunes class and you have been having a blast. You bang your sticks to the beat like a pro, shake your shaker and wave your scarf around like the big kid
•  You are a bit shy. People love to approach you, tell you how beautiful you are and how big you are (we look ridiculous when I’m carrying you). Every time they do, you tuck your head into my chest until they leave. You’ve done this for months now and I don’t see you growing out of it anytime soon. 
• You are still a little explorer with a mischievous side - opening drawers that aren't baby proofed, playing in the dog bowls, unrolling the toilet paper, digging around in the snack basket of the pantry and picking things up off the ground you aren't supposed to have.  If you have something you aren't allowed and I take it away, you open your arms out wide, wave them up and down and smile because you think it’s all just a big game. 
• When I ask you for a kiss, you kiss me.  That big wide open mouthed kiss that I hope you never grow out of. Many times, I ask you to kiss me over and over and over and you are sweet enough to oblige. My sweet little baby.  
• You love playing with musical toys and anything your sister likes.
• You love and admire Emeline like nothing I’ve ever witnessed. The connection the two of you have and had from the moment you met is something I’m most proud of in this life. I know it will happen, but I just can’t imagine the two of you fighting. There is just so much love between you. 
• You are so great at mimicking us.  Whether it is a body movement, a noise with our mouths or even a word, you are so interested in everything we do and often times mimic us perfectly.  
• You have only six teeth still and have for 2 months now. Trust me, I’m not rushing this! But, you do have the most precious gap between your top two teeth that just melts me when you smile. 
• Some of your favorite activities besides exploring include: Swinging - it instantly soothes you and even puts you to sleep. We have this great spot for your swings under an old oak tree at our new house that we just love. Being tickled - you giggle, squirm and give us that look for more. Bath time - it’s always been a favorite for you and your sister. It’s part of your bonding time to splash about and play together.
• Your first word was ‘mama’, but you can now say, ‘dada’, ‘bubba’, ‘hi’, ‘hey’, ‘more’, ‘mimi’, ‘eyes’, ‘sissy’, ‘nigh-nigh’, ‘bye-bye’ and ‘mommy’. I can’t believe how early and how much you have been saying. Our house is never quiet with your ‘Chatty Cathy' sister, so I can’t be too surprised.
• You can walk while holding on to our hands for balance.  I don't think it will be long before you need no assistance.  You are obsessed with your walker right now and can push it all around the house.  You just need some help when you run into something.  
• You have been a mommy’s girl from the beginning. And I secretly hope you always will be (don’t tell Daddy!). Our bond and our secrets run deep. 
• Your favorite song is If You’re Happy and You Know It and your favorite game is Pat-a-Cake. See the trend? You love clapping. You even clap for yourself when you’ve done something commendable. Smarty pants. 
• You can also high five. We clap and high five for every new accomplishment. 
• You and Daddy have your own game of him blowing in your hair. We get the biggest giggles out of you when he does this. Makes my heart swell. 
• We have our own game too. Sometimes, I will be gazing at you being you and you look at me, lean forward and we bump heads. You’ve loved this for months and do it with Mimi too. It’s our moment of connection saying, ‘I get you’ during the hustle and bustle of our days. 
• Another game you play with Mimi and I is throwing your head in our chests. You think it’s hilarious. And it goes without saying, but so do we. 
• You love books and being read to. You’ve even started pointed at objects with me. You are especially interested in the books that teach facial features. You already point and say, ‘eyes’, but I know nose and mouth are coming soon. I have to say, you enjoy finger puppet books the most. Especially when ‘they’ tickle you! 
• You drink 2-8 oz bottles of formula a day, 3 finger food meals and 2 snacks.  You are such a great eater.  I think you eat as much as I do sometimes!  You will literally eat or at the very least try anything I put in front of you. Even those cauliflower mashed ‘potatoes’ daddy fed you the other night that came right back out. I don’t blame you with the texture on that one baby! I would say you favorite food is chicken. You love your meat!
• You sleep from 8:00 pm-7:30 am. Your nap schedule is still the same.  Your morning nap is 2 hours and your afternoon nap is 45 min to 1 hour.
• You are in size 18-24 month clothes and size 4 diapers.  
• Weight - 24 lbs 6 oz 
• Height - 30.5 in” 

I'm forever thankful for you and for your birth mom choosing us to live out the best days of our life with our sweet girl. We look forward to celebrating each day with you and watching you grow into the Giselle you were were always meant to be. You are pure joy. We couldn’t possibly be more in love with you. We love you more than you’ll ever know. 

Love forever and always,
Mommy, Daddy and Emeline
(Oskar and George too!)

Giselle is 11 Months Old

Dear Giselle,

One more month and you will become a full blown toddler.  Crazy.  I used to say I'm not ready, but I see this glimmer in your eye as you learn and discover something new and I know how happy that makes you.  And no matter what, when you are happy, we are happy.  As you get older, you get more and more fun (as if that's possible).  You are such a bright ball of energy; always on the move and always smiling.  I still wake up every day so thankful for this gift to be your Mommy and I still can't believe God blessed us so abundantly with such a perfect baby.  You are our world.  Our family and your happiness is all that matters.  

Here is a peek into your world at 11 months old:

• Each day you are such a busy explorer, always on-the-go exploring every single detail around you.  You love to crawl around the house and open each and every cabinet we have to peek at whats inside. It keeps you busier than any toy you own that's for sure! Your favorite pastime at the moment is unrolling the toilet paper and ripping it up. I let you play on occasion and hope that takes the wonder out of it. 
• Last month you started standing and this month you can walk with your walker. The first time I gave it to you, you pulled right up and off you went. I of course was stunned and totally didn't expect that. I cried... Yep. I'm just not ready for my baby to grow up. I want to keep you little for as long as I can. 
• Your sister has always loved to cheers and it's a big part of many of our family meals, so it's not surprise that you had been watching and taking that in. One day, we went to cheers your cup and you lifted it right up and ours and 'clink'. You are hooked now too! It's so sweet to cheers to the start of the day with you and Emeline.
• I'm pretty sure you are more vocal than most babies at this age.  You babble constantly!  Maybe you will be an early talker?  Or maybe you already are!  You can say - hi, hey, mama, dada, mommy, bubba, mimi, night night, bye-bye and eyes.  
• You continue to be fascinated by eyes and you can now point to someone's eyes and say 'eye'. I was stunned at how fast you learned this. You are one bright baby girl.   
• Lately you have really been responding well to what I ask of you.  When I tell you no, you shake your head no and sometimes stop what you are doing and when I tell you to hand me something, you do.  We are starting discipline early since you are busy-active-into-everything kind of baby.  
• You are now drinking water from all sippy cups - even the ones with straws.  Oh and you do not like help.  You are very independent and only like to hold the cup yourself. 
• You drink 3-8 oz bottles a day, 3 finger food meals and 2 snacks.  We still can't believe how great of an eater you are.  You sure do love your food!  I've also noticed your appetite really increasing lately.  We can't leave the house without snacks!
• You sleep from 8:00 pm-7:30 am.  Your nap schedule is still the same.  
• You are still in size 12-18 month clothes and size 4 diapers

Things really did change for the better when we brought you home.  One day I'll write you a letter on all the many life lessons you have already taught us.  Thank you for making my world a better place and me a better person.

You're the one we've always wished for,

Mommy, Daddy and Emeline

(Oskar and George too)

Giselle is 10 Months Old

Dear Giselle,

Oh no... My sweet baby girl has reached the double digits and you know what that means... You are soon to be 1 YEAR OLD.  I can't bare the thought of it just yet, so we won't talk about it.  For now, I'm going to enjoy every second of these last two months of your infancy before you become a full blown toddler. 

You brighten every day.  Every morning you wake up first (aside from Daddy) and every morning I walk into your room to see your beaming, beautiful face and to hear the sound of your precious voice tell me 'hi'. There is not a more peaceful way to start my day. How can that day not be glorious when I'm greeted by you and your sweet innocence.  You have to be one of the happiest babies around.  I know every mom says this, but you just have to be. The amount of joy and laughter you show to others is incredible and just one of the many lessons you will teach Daddy and I. I know  in my heart of hearts that you will grow to be a perpetually happy, joyful and positive person. Our hearts and home have never been filled with so much love and JOY.  Thank you for this gift.  

Here's a peek into your world at 10 months old:

• You are officially a stander.  You can really stand for as long as you wish, but only if you are holding on to something. You haven't reached the freehanded stage just yet. Whew, because that's the last step before walking.  Please be a baby for a little longer. Please...
• And now that you can stand, you can climb! Oh boy... I open the dishwasher and those chunky thighs of your suddenly find themselves on top of my dishwasher. You can also climb the stairs leading out of our living room. This used to be a safe place for me to set you down and walk away for a minute because you were 'locked' in. Not any more. Those whole house is yours to discover now. 
•  Recently when you get excited about something or even when I get on to you for something (and you think it's all a big joke) - you throw your arms out wide and wave them up and down in excitement.  It's quite funny. And hard to discipline. Oh boy. You've already got my sweet spot figured out. 
• Oskar and George have really had your attention lately. It seems you have become quite fond of them these days. And I can't say I blame you. They are with us for every diaper change, every bath, every meal and bottle and every playtime in between.  Lets just say, they don't leave our side. You have tried so hard to kiss Oskar, but he's just not ready yet. They both do let you slip in the occasional rub and tap. You are gentle - enough!
• Speaking of your love for the dogs... You have discovered how fun and funny it is to feed them! You love dropping them the occasional treat and giggling about it. If I step away and hear you laughing I know you are guilty. Stinker!
• Recently I realized I haven't taught you how to throw a ball and with in minutes, you had it down.  Until they started going under the couch and then you just intentionally threw them there. Silly girl. 
• You love watching the big kids we come in contact with. You and your sister are in a music class and you try your hardest to mimic everything they do. It's pretty sweet until they show their age and you attempt to be mischievous right along side them. 
• Bath time continues to be one of your favorite times of the day.  You pull up and start bouncing up and down in excitement every time you hear the water start. Right when I place you in the bath tub those legs start to kicking. Even if there isn't any water yet. You just love taking baths! But you hate swimming... Go figure. 
• Every day your babbling gets better and better.  You can mimic unbelievably well.  If you are in the mood, you will repeat a word we say and most of the time, its sounds just like what came our of our mouths.  I'm amazed.  
• You have 6 teeth now and at the moment you have no signs of any others popping through.  Every night after bath, you bounce up and down in excitement when it's time to brush your teeth. I've never seen a baby love brushing his/her teeth as much as you do. I sure hope you never fight me on this like sister did. 
• You are fascinated with people's eyes, nose and mouth. Always reaching and grabbing. 
• If I had to say what your favorite toy is at the moment, I would have to say it is anything musical. Musical drums, musical books, anything that sings a little tune and you are hooked. 
• We are still working on our sign language and you can sign - all done and more.  You are talking so much and so fast that I'm not sure if we should continue the signs. You don't have an interest really... You'd much rather skip that step and babble. We'll figure it out together. 
• Mimi has taught you how to make this clicking noise with your tongue and you do it all the time now.  It's pretty cute.
• You are such a great eater; I can't believe it.  You will eat anything.  The only thing you still don't like is avocado, but I sneak it into things and you eat it. I'm not even sure you have a favorite food. You really seem to enjoy most things. But I will say, you always eat your meat first. You love your protein like mommy!  You eat finger foods only like a full blown toddler - 3 times a day and 1 afternoon snack. 
• You drink 3 - 8oz bottles of formula a day and water through a sippy cup whenever you want it.  
• Sleep continues to be the same.  You sleep from 8:00pm-7:30am.  Sometimes you wake up even later and I so enjoy those mornings I get to sleep in.  I realize every day how lucky I am to have a baby who is such a good sleeper.  Your nap schedule is the same as well.  Your morning nap is about 2 hours and your afternoon nap is about an hour and sometimes only 30 minutes.  
• You are still in size 12-18  month or 12 month clothes and size 4 diapers.  

Thank you for making every day count. 

You are the best thing that ever happened to us,

Mommy, Daddy and Emeline

(Oskar and George too)

Giselle is Nine Months Old

Dear Giselle,

Giselle Laine Simpson, my are you ever loved and cherished sweet girl. Everyone who meets you just falls in love with that sweet cackle and deep giggle of yours. Your eyes melt me and when our eyes meet and I give you a look, you just get me and give me that hilarious cackle of yours. That laugh just seems to melt the woes of the world away and forces me to focus on the blessings right in front of me. You are one of my biggest blessings and always will be. 

I love everything about you, but something I love most is your tenacity for life. You enter a challenge and face it head on. This trait will take you so far in life and I promise to always encourage and foster this characteristic of yours. I believe it will make you someone very special. That plus the way you light up the lives around you with your silliness and your smile. You sure make your mommy and daddy beam.

Here is a peek into your world at 9 months old:

• We have a little game you and I. Or rather you have a game you play with me. You love getting into the dog bowls and I immediately tell you no, no, no. You listen, get super excited, back away for a second, give me that look and dive right back in for some more fun. And repeat. It's silly and we both get a chuckle, but my point is, you understand the word 'no' and you do actually listen to me. Hooray! Can you please be a better listener than your sister?? 
• I've really been amazed at what you understand lately. You are really growing up. I can tell you to come here, follow me to another room, hand me a certain toy, etc. and you listen and follow instructions. I think and hope you will aim to please when you are older. Right now, I'm feeling like your listening skills are superb!
• You stopped pulling up on your crib and since we moved, there aren't a ton of things for you to pull up onto until the furniture arrives, but you are pulling up and getting onto your knees which is promising. You still love to be held and I hold you every second I can, so I may be holding you back a bit, but I'm okay with it. I just want you to stay little. Your sister is so focused on being a big girl that I just want my baby to be a baby. That okay with you?
• You are now starting to wave, but you are very particular to who you wave at. Meaning you never do it on command. Just when you fancy saying hello or good-bye to someone.
• You got your second top tooth this month, making that four teeth total. And now you have this adorable gap between your teeth that I just love so much. It melts me too. 
• You give the best hugs. I mean they are really hugs even with a nice pat on the back at the end. Mommy squeezes you and give you pats on the back for comfort and now, you do it right back to me. Sometimes I think it's also your way of letting me know you need that extra comforting pat on the back. 
• You love making noises with your mouth and can do them on command. You kiss and click your tongue every time I ask you. Although when we kiss, you still give out the slobbery ones. Sister doesn't appreciate them so much, but I sure do!
• You really love toys these days and we are having so much fun playing together with Emeline. You even love dress up and get a kick out of seeing yourself in the mirror dressed up. I think you are going to be a total girly-girl too! You love playing with the activity cube, a musical make-up mirror, love story-time (but you are super wiggly), crashing tea parties, swinging outside, eating sister's play food, banging on the drum, eating books and talking on the phone. 
• Speaking of talking, you are babbling so much lately! Based on your lack of sleep, I think you are about to hit another speech and physical milestone. You should be pulling up soon (again since you regressed) and I'm sure you will add some words to your, 'mama', 'dada', 'hi', 'hey' (in a deep voice), 'okay', 'yes' vocabulary. 
• That reminds me... Now when we are getting ready to eat, I'll ask you if you would like something and if the answer is yes, you get so excited and shake your head up and down saying emphatically, 'yes'.
• We've been working on signs, but you are still just signing 'more' and that's totally okay. Sometimes you get so excited that your more is more of a waving your hangs together and we all giggle because you look so silly doing so. 
• Exploring - that is definitely your favorite activity these days.  You never sit still.  There is always something new to find and discover in your world!
• You love peek-a-boo and to be scared.  We get the biggest smiles and giggles from you when we play. You also love to be 'thrown' on the bed. I never actually let go, but you love the trill of it. You also love to fall backwards on your own or by me 'pushing' you and you love to throw yourself into my and Mimi's chest. We all get the biggest kick out of it.
• You now eat finger foods only and 3 times a day.  You are very independent too.  You only want to feed yourself.  Your ability to pinch and pick up your food with your pointer finger and thumb really amazes me.  You can pick up even the smallest foods like cottage cheese.
• You continue to be a pretty good sleeper although our mornings progressively getting earlier and earlier. Momma's no morning person! You sleep from 8:00 pm - 6:00 am.
• You are still in size 12-18 month clothes and size 4 diapers.
• You weigh 21 lbs 3 oz (88%) - your weight gain started to slow after you became mobile.  I think you even lost some weight you are so active.
• Your height is 29" (88%)
• Little lady, I am so very proud of you. This month, you took swim lessons and learned if you fell into the water to kick to the surface, turn on your back and kick to the side of the pool. You can then turn, reach to the side, pull yourself up and hold on for dear life until you are rescued. We have a pool now and it was of upmost importance for me to have both of my girls safe around the water. I'm pleased to say you both are! Proud mommy right here! You showed such strength and determination while learning that I was in awe of little you and beaming with pride that you are mine. Both of you showed such intelligence and good listening skills that even the instructed was impressed by you. I couldn't be more proud. 
• You and Emeline are the very best of friends. In fact she tells me every day. And you idolize her every move. Just promise me you won't copy EVERYthing she does. She's a toddler you know and a force to be reckoned with. But she can teach you some pretty special lessons in life as she is one well mannered, polite and kind little lady. 

This month, we moved into a new home and you were a rockstar. Not once were you shaken from the stresses of moving and the change in scenery or routine. You just went with the flow of life changes and I'm so thankful. We are settled in our new life now in Austin and I know you are really happy here. As are we dear one. As are we... We are very much looking forward to raising you with so much love and happiness in our new home and introducing you to all the fun and adventure our new city has to offer. You make my heart so full Giselle Laine. 

You simply amaze us,

Mommy, Daddy and Emeline

(Oskar and George too) 

Giselle is Eight Months Old

Dear Giselle,

Gosh, this month you really turned a page and grew up even faster on me. In one short little month, you became mobile and you began to really communicate with us. My little baby girl is learning, thriving and growing up ever so quickly. With each day that passes, my love for you grows and we become more bonded than ever. You're my sweet little blue-eyed buttercup who I just adore in every way. 

Here's a peek into your world at 8 months old:

You have learned to clap now and you understand when it is appropriate.  You clap for yourself when you do something new, when you are proud of you, when one of us says 'yay' anytime, when your sister does something silly or when Mommy or Daddy do something you like - you clap for it all. That's a lot of clapping in one day!

You are now crawling! After you learned how to crawl, you quickly mastered it. You are so fast especially when you are crawling to something or someone you are excited to see. You are a baby on a mission! This has opened your world up to so many new discoveries as you crawl to touch and experience new things. Mostly your sister's toys. I guess after all, you prefer her big girl toys instead of those silly baby toys I've been placing in front of you. 

I was cleaning your room one day while you were playing in your crib and I look up to your bright beaming face and you were standing! You pulled yourself right up and you were so very proud of your newest accomplishment. Our hearts of course sank because you grew up just a little bit more. I thought this was going to be a new normal, so immediately I made your Daddy pull out the tools and lower the crib for you. And you haven't done it since... You fooled us! But I will never forget the proud look on your face when you did it. Sweetest glimmer in your eyes. 

You are both signing and saying 'more' during feeding time. I even caught it on video! We were all so proud of you and couldn't believe that word popped out of your mouth at such a young age. 

Your third tooth popped in this month and it was your first top tooth. You handled this one like a champ!

You love every food and are now feeding yourself finger foods and drinking from a sippy cup on your own. This independence of both you and your sister is something I'm very proud of. I wish you both needed me a little more, but I'm thankful to have fostered this trait in both of you - one that may lead to you wanting my help over needing my help. 

You take two naps a day now.  A 1 hour nap 2 hours after you wake up and a 1 or 2 hour nap from 1:30-3:30. I'm so happy and feel much more accomplished now that I have time to tend to my mommy/wife duties while you are napping and sometimes I get in a little 'me' time too. It's wonderful to have a bit of a breather while you and sister sleep at the same time. 

You are still eating finger foods 2 times a day and you are eating much more of it.  This last month you dropped 1 nap and 1 bottle - big changes!  3 - 8oz bottles a day for you now and I'm thinking you will start eating food 3 times a day soon.  

You continue to sleep from 8:30 am-7:30 pm.  

You are in size 12-18 months clothes with growing room and you are still in size 4 diapers. 

Baby girl, you are just thriving and growing so fast I can hardly keep up.  Each month I write you these letters, I hope I remember all the important and special moments and milestones to document for me and for you.  I know one day these moments will all be a distant, but cherished memory.  Some Daddy and I may forget and others will feel like yesterday.  Baby, thank you for all of these special moments.  Thank you for making me feel so incredibly loved and admired by you.  I never imagined you would love me so deeply.  

You fill my heart,

Mommy, Daddy and Emeline

(and Oskar and George too)

Emeline is 3 Years Old!

Dear Emeline,

Happy 3rd Birthday baby girl! You are made of pure joy, pure love and an unbreakable spirit. You are so full of life. Your energy and your smile are simply contagious. We've had the best time celebrating your spirit and the 'birbay' you have been anxiously awaiting the last 6 months as you have seen/helped me prepare for everyone else's birthday but yours. I hope all of your birthday wishes come true because you are certainly my wish come true. I love you 'way way more than you know' my 'EMEline' (that's how you say your name). 

When I look back at 3 year old Emeline, what will I want us to remember? The answer is...everything. I want to remember every silly saying, every I love you, every dance move, every squeal, the way you light up the room, they way you make everyone love you. I want to remember everything about you. And I want to learn from you.

This last year was a BIG year for you. It wasn't without it's bumps in the road, because you aren't you without them, but it was an INCREDIBLE year. Before I move into all the ways this year was so amazing, I have to tell you now (and you'll hear me say it) - you have a spitfire personality and I so admire your passion, but that also makes you a bit more difficult child to raise especially at such a young age when you feel so many things, but don't understand why or how to deal with those feelings. We are hopefully raising you in a way that does not squash that passion. I hope we are helping you foster those emotions and use them for good, because we know you are going to make one heck of an adult one day. You will move mountains - we just know it. And I hope you do too.

Back to the year (June 2014 - June 2015) I think we will all look back on as a favorite. Here are all the many amazin' (as you say) things I want us to remember:

• We celebrated your second birthday in Belize and you got your very first passport stamp. It was also Poppa's first trip abroad and we had such a great time. It's a trip I will always look back on with a huge smile on my face. I love nothing more than introducing you to new and exciting things. I guess it's what I live for - moments like that. Trips like that. Making memories with our family. 
• We lived on Winston Falls at the time and your best friend (outside of Mila of course) was Ben. You loved his brother Joe too, but in your words, 'Joe is sleeping'. He was always asleep in your mind. You three had so much fun together and we are thankful to have lived next door to a special family that will always hold a special place in our heart. You sure loved your 'Aunt Jenni'.
• This is the year that your love of books really took off. It was always my favorite time of day with you. Reading in your bed, book after book after book. Your favorite books are Love Ruby Valentine, I Love You So Much, shadow books, any holiday book, A Mother for Choco, I Had a Favorite Dress, The Napping House, A Visitor for Bear and so many more. 
• We visited your birth mom twice this year. One trip to the zoo and to Baskin Robbins where you shared ice cream with her (our favorite - rainbow sherbet). The next day we took you to your first theme park - Six Flags and your love for thrill and adventure started here. We ended our trip to Fort Worth with a trip to Coopers for peach ice cream on the way home. Later that year, we celebrated her sister's marriage. You were the sweetest flower girl, but you got a bit too shy to really perform your duties, so I walked down the aisle with you. You did dance the night away on the dance floor though. We made some memories we will never forget this night. Really, we were blessed to share this special time with your birth family. Most adoptive families don't get these moments. 
• You are a fish! You love the water. It really seems to bring you peace and calmness. Can we bottle that up for you?! You are taking swim lessons and are making progress, but you love the freedom of swimming about on your own in your puddle jumper. 
• We got your first fish 'Little Raine' named after mommy and daddy's fish Raine in college (he was our first pet together. We sufficiently killed Little Raine three weeks later. Still don't know how...
• We got your beloved Lilah (build a bear first bear) for your second birthday and she's the first stuffed animal you really have clung too. That and this bunny with a rattle in it. Daddy and I will never forget the rattle sound coming down our hallway (Lake Gardens house) as you came into our room in the middle of the night. 
• You love milk still. You might just not grow out of your love for milk. Every day starts out with a big glass of whole milk. And some days you get an mid afternoon treat too. 
• I took you to you very first circus with Ben and Joe and you only lasted for 45 minutes. I thought it was a total bust until you started talking about it the very next day and every day after for 6+ months. Every person you met, you simply said, 'circus?' before anything else as if to see if they liked the circus too before figuring out if you wanted to talk to them further. It was hilarious! 
• I also took you to your very first movie - Planes: Fire and Rescue. I thought you would love it since you love watching the planes pass over our house, but then again, you only lasted for half of it. This one you didn't talk about...
• We took you on your second trip to Beaver Creek. You will know that this trip is so special to me. We took you there at 10 weeks old and have gone every year at Labor Day since. Except that one year Daddy's boss made us cancel... There is something so magical and refreshing about being in the mountains with my family. We had our traditional VooDoo Donuts in the park upon arrival and we hiked to truly magical Beaver Lake as always. We also attended the always fun Oktoberfest where Mimi, Poppa, Noni and Pa met us there for a day. You'll know how special this trip is to me. Daddy even purchased a painting for me to always have the memory around. 
• The very next day after we landed at midnight from our Beaver Creek trip, you started your very first day of school. You loved Mrs. Stephanie and Mrs. Tiffany so, but you and Mrs. Stephanie really bonded. I felt at ease leaving you with someone who truly loved you for you. The spunky, spirited, silly you. You really thrived in school. I think I only received one bad report. I think you bit someone. Other than that, you are really truly sweet, caring, loving and kind to other children. I love this about you. Always concerned for their well being if they fall, get hurt, sad, mad, etc. You really thrived in your learning also. By week 2, (you were 2 years and 3 months) you mastered your ABC's. The same ABC's you I had been singing to you at nauseam for years. For almost a year, you sang LMNOPeas and I never had the heart to correct you. I loved it so. You mastered counting to 13, your colors and learning letter and number recognition too. 
• Right after Mommy and Daddy dropped you off on your first day of school, we went and closed on our second home together - Lake Gardens. That night we had a sushi picnic on the floor in our new home to celebrate. We moved to Kingwood just a mere 3 weeks later. This was such a special city to me. We only lived there for 10 months but Kingwood and our gorgeous home with such a peaceful backyard will always be dear to me. I loved our life there and you loved 'Eme's house' as you affectionately called it. We lived a very full life in that wonderful town and home in only 10 months. 
• On October 16th, God blessed us with the greatest gift - Giselle Laine Simpson. With just three days notice, you became a big sister and you fell in love with her instantly. The moment you met her brought me to my knees. It was a dream come true for me on so many levels to give you a sibling, but to be able to give you a sister and best friend for life means everything to me. You've been the sweetest big sister and she has helped you mature so much. She idolizes you and you are completely in love with her. I'm so proud of you both and the strength of your bond. It's been incredible to witness day in and day out. 
• Your sister's nickname was supposed to be 'Elle', but you gave her the name 'Selle' and it stuck. For better or for worse, it's her name in our home. She might not like you for this later, but I love that you named her. 
• Your favorite holiday this year was Halloween. We were a rag doll family and I have to admit, we were pretty darn cute. You were obsessed with all things scary, dressing up, the movies, the books, and the candy too of course. You loved it all! And we celebrated big in true mommy style. You know I love to celebrate holidays! I introduced you to Hocus Pocus and it's been a favorite movie since. 
• Your F's are pronounced as P's and your L's are pronounced as R's and your R's pronounced as W's. I can't correct you because I know one day very soon you can say all of your words correctly. I love when you say 'coppee' and 'goopy' among many others. 
• We celebrated your 3rd Christmas and it's was our best yet. New house, new baby and so many incredible memories. I'll never forget that day and holiday season with you. The magic I saw in your eyes will stay with me forever. It was this Christmas that you became smitten with Kevin McCalister and the movie Home Alone. You started acting out the bathroom scene which you affectionately call, 'shampoo, ahh!!'. We've laughed at this dozens of times and it doesn't get old. 
• We rang in the new year with you and you were fascinated with the 'sparkeys' and confetti filled count down you and I shared. We loved making you a part of our New Year celebrations. 2015 was the start of something special. Might just be our best year yet!
• You are resourceful I tell you. One day soon after we moved into Lake Gardens, you pushed your hamper all the way from your room to the fridge, climbed up, unlocked the lock, broke in and stole your beloved berries and bacon. Only after all this mess plus playing in sister's bottles did you yell for help. We knew then we were really in trouble with you. Plus, a few days later, you broke into sister's teething meds and ate the whole bottle. In came the door lock and the hallway gate. Fixed you right up! You really seemed to appreciate it and sleep better at night too. You were no longer staying up and dreaming of things you could get into while mommy and daddy were sleeping. 
• In 2015 we had the loveliest Valentine's day and sweetest Easter too. Daddy dressed up as the Easter bunny, you saw his arm pop out and the surprise was ruined. You shouted, 'it's daddy in the costume!'. You weren't even three yet and we screwed that one up... Hopefully you will forget... But if not, we've laughed about that day and moment so many times. It was worth it!
• On April 10th, Daddy quit the job he hated and accepted his dream job as CFO for Luxe Energy in Austin. It was the open door we've always dreamed of and the start of many new adventures. The first being able to enjoy Daddy home with us for three whole months as he waited the start of his new career. We found our dream house in Austin during this time, travelled to California, played at home with you two and took many a trip to Austin to plan out our new life there. It was so busy, but so nice to have Daddy home with us to experience it all with him. 
• On April 27th, we finalized your sister's adoption and she became your official sister forever and ever, amen. It was certainly one of the happiest days of our lives. Even for you!
• Shortly after we finalized Giselle's adoption she became your best friend and so did I. You proclaim every single day that, 'Mommy, Mimi and Selle are my best fwiends!'. I just love it. You are my best 'fwiend' too, but I'm still your mommy first. 
• And just like that, the year was over. You are three now. Three has been hard on my mommy's heart. I love watching you grown and experience life, but I down right hate how fast time is moving. I guess that's what motherhood is all about - nostalgia and grace. I've got the nostalgia part down, but grace on the other hand I take day by day. You thankfully give me lots of free passes and you love me no matter what. It's a beautiful thing your love for me. We celebrated you turning three by taking you and your sister to a night away in Galveston. We went to the beach on your last day as a two year old and had the best day. Afterward, we had dinner as a family and then we went to the hotel lounge and let you stay up way past your bedtime while we enjoyed listening to the pianist play Micky Mouse for you and we enjoyed a dessert together - you picked pie (our favorite!). It was the sweetest night. The next day you turned three! We started the morning with donuts, lots of Happy Birthday singing and presents. We then went down to the pool and spent hours there before heading to Mimi and Poppa's to celebrate with them. 
• The very next day, you had the most fun Farmer's Market party (inspired by your love of the farmer's market we went to in California) with all of your friends. We had a bounce house, a clown and lots of sweets and yummy food daddy made for us. It was a blast and I'm not sure how we'll top it next year. But you know me, I gotta try!

And here are some of your very favorite things in your third year of life - baking with me, playing in the sprinkler, movies, books, play dates with our friends, taking Oskar and George on walks, jumping on the trampoline Mimi and Poppa got you for your 2nd birthday, dresses and accessories, playing dress-up, Elmo, footprint art, picnics, nature walks, and your best fwiends - Weston, Ben and Joe, Mila and Luca, Sebastian, and McKinley.

Emeline, I want you to know how very much I love you. You, your sister and your daddy are the first thought I have when I wake up in the morning and the last thought I have before I shut my eyes at night. You three are my everything and I find such great purpose as wife and mother to you two. But you my love, are truly something special. You tell me you love me at least 20 times a day. Maybe more. Probably more. I find my greatest joy in surprising you and your sister and making this childhood of yours as magical as I possibly can. I might be ruining you for your future husband, but you know what, I'm also raising you to be truly grateful for it. You know how hard I work to make this life special for you and honestly, you make me feel so loved and treasured by you. All the ways you tell me 'thank you' and that I'm the, 'best mommy ever' make me feel more loved, more treasured and like you are more grateful for me than anyone else in my life. You have no idea how special you make me feel. Thank you for lifting me up and making me feel so very loved by you. You have the sweetest and kindest heart. I love you 'way way more than you know'. And I always will. 

Forever and always, 

Mommy, Daddy, 'Selle', Oskar and George