When I was pregnant with Sophie, I knew that I would have a scheduled c-section.  Since I had selected St. Patrick's Day for Martin's birthday, I thought that I really shouldn't pick a holiday for the second baby's birth.  I set the date for February 15th, and went about making my plans.  Then, on the morning of Valentine's Day, I went into labor.  And just a few hours later, Sophie arrived.  My second holiday baby.

Here she is, every year since she was born - 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008:


She is such a joy, this child of mine.  She is lovely - big love, lots of affection, go-with-the-flow kind of girl.  She has big feelings and wears them on her sleeve.  The other night she woke up in the middle of the night and demanded ice cream.  When I said no, that it was not time for ice cream, she cried and wailed like I had broken her heart.  So deep are her emotions, I almost gave in.  I mean, look at her face, wouldn't you?

Happy birthday, baby.  Our family wasn't complete until you arrived.