To Lorelei, On Her First Birthday

Oh, my fair Lorelei. My fair-skinned, fair-eyed, eyebrow-perpetually-arched Lorelei. One year ago today, I literally laughed as I birthed you. I love that you were born into happiness and joy, smiles and laughter. A little too much Niner talk, but still. It was a good birth.

The pediatric nurse was delayed for some reason, so you and I hung out for a long while, you having your first nurse and snuggle. Then Daddy held you and got a good look at who he helped create. Next, Nana came in, her giant grin shifting to blubbers as you started a squawky cry. 

A few hours later, you met your big sister. Well, you were sleeping, but she gazed lovingly at you. Charlotte claimed you as her baby. But sweet Lorelei, you and I both know---you are my baby.

The baby of my babies. 

Lorelei, you were so wanted and so deeply loved, even when you were a tiny zygote. With Charlotte, we knew how deeply a child could be loved, but with you, we learned that love could instantly double—it’s endless.

This past year, you pushed your little family to grow, adapt, and prioritize. A more laid back Opp/Hofmann (we didn’t know those could exist), you waited patiently countless times while I tended to your sister; you slept through your own baptism; and you wryly observed the world around you, every once in a while raising that classic Lorelei arched brow.

You have more charm and coyness than is probably good for you, but goodness, you make us melt and laugh.

Despite being on the laid back side, you don’t like cold liquids, hats on your head, sitting in your car seat (unless Charlotte is there to entertain you), having your face wiped, or getting dressed. Sleep-training you was the challenge of the century, and weaning you was easy-peasy. You love bouncing and dancing, Cheerios with a capital C, when other people sneeze (you think it’s a HOOT and then you mimic it), and blowing raspberries. You crawl frighteningly fast, you babble happily and incoherently, and it takes an injury drawing blood (at least) for you to cry if you’re hurt. 

The humor in your eyes, the sweetness in your disposition, the patience in your little soul---everything about you is distinctly, fabulously you, Lorelei, and we love every little bit.

Fair Lorelei, you were the perfect addition to our family. Your wry grin and coy smiles, your surprising blue eyes (seriously, where did those come from?), your near-constant Mohawk, and your sheer Lorelei-ness have brought us so much joy these past 365 days. Happy first birthday, sweet girl. Your mommy, daddy, and big sister simply adore you.

Sing Lorelei, fair Lorelei, they yearn for your golden voice,

Your beauty will haunt them, your voice will entrance them,

They'll give their last breath, for fair Lorelei.