XVII

Seventeen years ago today I had a doctor's appointment.  I only remember because after that appointment I was sent to the hospital to birth my third precious baby, and by early evening our new addition had arrived.

She was such a cute baby.

Note:  I hated that this picture had the nurse's hand in it... which was only the beginning of Lexee's picture troubles the first few years of her life.  Nearly every picture until she started school had issues... not being centered (totally side-cropped), my supporting arm visible, head cut off the top.  All were photographer error, but it was so frustrating in those days of non-digital where you didn't know there was a big goof until the 8x10 was developed and in your hand.  We joke about how this particular picture (which could never be retaken since it was mere hours after she was born) looks like the nurse was going to strangle her.

So today we are celebrating.  Kind of.  Our day is loaded with schedules, as usual.  Lex has cheer practice after school, then the Homecoming parade this evening.  But I have a few surprises up my sleeve (which she will probably disapprove of, since she hates attention).  We'll see if I can pull them off.

But for now, I'll reminisce about how Lexee has grown up to be a beautiful young woman, and share some (digital) ghosts of birthdays past.

XI

XII

XIII

XIV

XV

XVI

If I'm lucky, she'll let me take some pictures today.  Someday she'll be glad her mother loved to capture the moments of her life.  She really will.  And hopefully she will realize it was done out of love, admiration, and pride (the good kind)... not to torment.

Happy Birthday Lexee!


We love you.