Happy Birthday, Luke

The first year of Luke's life went way too fast. I know people always say that, but as my third child, it was even faster. Knowing how fast it goes, for the first time, I was truly able to enjoy every moment. With both Caleb and Chloe, I was so nervous that there were moments I, unfortunately, wished away. I have absolutely loved and adored them every single moment of their lives, but things like teething, fussiness, gas, spit up, etc overwhelmed me.

But with Luke, I knew he'd eventually get past all of it. So I could enjoy it.

I'm not sure if he is the easiest baby ever, or I am just less neurotic....but either way, Luke is amazing.

He has been walking for almost two months. He couldn't care less about baby toys, but rather prefers to chase his brother and sister around the house. He weaned about two weeks ago (can I get a hallelujah) and eats incredible amounts of (regular) food. In one sitting, he can polish off two pieces of pizza. As of his first birthday, he is working on getting his 5th tooth.

In short, he is a grown man. Well, not really, but I still cannot believe he is one. ONE.

Luke smiles and laughs all the time. It is so easy to get a great belly laugh from him. He loves to snuggle. While he loves to be held, he also loves being a free man!

We nicknamed Luke "Pookers", and we actually use "pook" as a verb. I will be out and call to ask how Luke is doing. Brett will reply, "He is just pooking around." The nickname has a funny story: Brett came up with it, but I thought it sounded terrible. But, somehow, for almost an entire year, the name has stuck. And everyone, including friends, call him Pookers or The Pook. So it makes me laugh that it is not only his nickname, but also a verb.

It took Luke about 11 and 1/2 months to sleep through the night, but he sleeps about 12-13 hours now! When he weaned, he also stopped using his pacifier. Taking away the pacifier has, historically, been hard, so I was so happy he did it on his own.

I completely adore my sweet Pook. I love to kiss and hug him!! He is just so squeezable and cute. He has made the transition to three kids so smooth. I could not be more thankful for such a laid back, sweet boy.

Even when he gets in "trouble", he is happy! Luke somehow figured out how to turn on Brett's PlayStation and eject the game from it. He does it like 10 times a day. We will say (in a serious tone), "No touch, Luke." Then, he laughs and claps....as if we are cheering for him. It is so hilarious to watch.

My boy is so absolutely wonderful!! When I look around at my three children, the youngest of which is ONE, I am so amazed at the faithfulness of God. I cannot believe how fortunate I am to get to raise these sweet kids.

Happy birthday, sweet Luke. You are such a treasure to our family.