Today is Madeline's real birthday. One year ago, we hadn't formally met. At this time last March 19, we still didn't know that we would hold her in our arms in a few short hours. Now I can't imagine a day without stepping on puzzle pieces, finding dried sweet potatoes in my hair and feeling her little arms around my neck. I am head over heels in love.
Today Rob came home with birthday flowers for Madeline, which we agreed would be a fun tradition to begin. And now that Madeline insists on eating what we're eating, I made her a special birthday dinner for the three of us -- healthy versions of macaroni and cheese, hot dogs and grilled cheese. Rob and I haven't eaten like that since fourth grade, but to tell you the truth, it was pretty good.
Miss Madeline has been very busy. Last week, she popped up and decided to walk across the room. She hasn't stopped since. Seeing her travel by foot takes me by surprise -- it seems as foreign as if Rob come in from work "walking" on his hands.
And speaking of Rob, Madeline has become very attached to her daddy! They had some serious father-daughter bonding time last Saturday while I was at an all-day conference. Now, while Rob takes his shower to get ready for work, Madeline crawls
up the stairs and wails outside the bathroom door -- I think she's saying, "I know you're in there! Get out here so we can keep playing!" This morning, she fussed for ten minutes after he left for work. She was so desperate to be in her dad's arms, that we had to strip her out of her yogurt-covered PJ's (breakfast) so Rob could hug her in his pressed white shirt and tie. 
Last Sunday, Rob's family came down to visit. We had a great time celebrating with Grammy, Grandpa and Aunt Nicki (Gram is in Florida)! They came in with bags of gifts, including Madeline's entire spring and summer wardrobe, plus toys, books and her very first tricycle. She is one lucky and very loved little girl.
