Born at 33 weeks, weighing only 3 lbs 15.5 oz., she was the tiniest, most beautiful new baby I could imagine.
I'd had the name "Charlotte" in my head for a few months, and had had trouble coming up with any alternatives. But I thought I'd have 7 more weeks to decide.
As it turned out, the name "Charlotte", of French origin, means "petite, feminine." So it was the perfect name for this tiny little girl.
It was an exhilarating, scary, joyous event bringing her into this world and learning how to take care of her in those early weeks. I felt privileged to be a part of it. Despite the physical pain, despite my fears...moments after she was born, I had the thought, "I'd love to do that again!" While I never would choose to have my newborn in the hospital for two weeks, having to take time away from my husband and my older daughter every day to care for her, I was so grateful that she was receiving such specific care and attention even while I wasn't able to be with her. I was glad to get the detailed updates of her progress from skilled, compassionate nurses who were watching her closely, twenty-four-seven (certainly no mom at home could never do that...we need to sleep!) I was involved in all aspects of her care, and they were my partners.
There simply isn't any way for me to recap her first year-and-a-half of being part of our family. But I will try...
Charlotte has brought so much joy to our family! She smiles and laughs so easily, is just a cheerful and delightful presence, and often showed remarkable patience and flexibility as a baby...much like Dorothy did.
In April, just before her first birthday, we had her assessed by the Frederick County Infants and Toddlers program - a state-sponsored, early intervention program that helps families of children ages 0-3 with all types of delays or special needs. Charlotte qualified for their services based on a motor skills delay (she was late in learning how to sit up, roll, crawl, stand, and walk). A wonderful physical therapist has come to our home twice a month for the last 6 months. She, too, has been my partner in caring for Charlotte...the focus has been on empowering me to help my daughter, just like when she was in the NICU. I have been her coach and her cheerleader. I rejoiced at each accomplishment and encouraged her toward the next one. I guess it's good practice for the rest of her life.
Charlotte's 18th month saw many milestones...perhaps the biggest is that she is now walking independently.
I have been so thrilled to see her exploring the previously uncharted world that has now opened up for her. It has been remarkable to see the world through her eyes, to be her guide and her interpreter. This is especially true when we're outside...and we do try to spend a lot of time outside.
She is close to 20 pounds now...still petite, but the pediatrician (who tends to use the word "underweight" rather than "petite") was very pleased with the weight she'd gained at her last visit. This was so encouraging to her mommy. So yes, I count that as a milestone. She also finally graduated out of her infant carrier this past month, too.
Many have recently said that she has made that transition where a baby suddenly looks less like a baby and more like a little girl. I think it's her big smile full of teeth, her hair which is getting longer, and the fact that she now walks around upright. She talks a lot...sometimes in English. She says "Hi" and "Bye" and "Hello" clearly (with an accompanying wave), "Baby", "Uh-Oh", "Bapple" (which means apple, and as far as I'm concerned she can keep on saying that for the next 5 years if she wants, because it's so daggone cute...)
I am full of love and joy and gratefulness as I write this, on her 18-month birthday. I thank God for this precious little person and look forward to all that is in store for us together.
And yes...I do hope to return to blogging - about both my girls, and the rest of my life. Thanks for reading!
