Happy Birthhday, Finn!

As you can see Finn is already preparing for his wild party tonight!

One year ago today, we made (our second) trip to the hospital to deliver Finnie. Finn's delayed entry into the world was in some respects a lovely blessing and a reminder that there are so many things completely out of our control. We enjoyed a long vacation at home with Grandma and Grandpa Dougherty. Seamus got lots of extra love and attention before his world was to be forever changed and James and I felt totally ready and so excited for the birth of our second child.

After almost two weeks, Grandpa Tom decided that he had to go home. His mother had been failing for a few months and the family was going to talk about her living situation moving forward. Her absolutely sharp mind was starting to get foggy and she had been quietly suffering for a long time. So Grandpa left with a heavy heart and we hoped we'd have some good news to report soon. Grandma Barbara stayed home to man the fort (well, mostly Seamus). And we wondered if we'd be bringing home a baby girl or little baby boy.

Well, everyone knows the story, we had our perfect little man. And we hardly know how we ever got along without him. Great-grandma Dougherty passed at about the same time and though we were all sad, we knew she was smiling down on us with Grandpa.



Life is such a blessing, at the begining, during the joys, trials, and everyday experiences and even at the end of the journey. In our families we feel so fortunate because at each point, we've been given such shining examples. Parents caring for children, siblings growing together, spouses supporting and challenging, and children caring for parents with hearts full of gratitude and love.

Finnie, you've added so much to our lives already. You're a smiler and a kisser. You've got the most warming laugh and happy eyes. You look more and more like your dad every day and you adore your brother. I'll always remember and enjoy how you wrap your arms around me when I get you out of your crib in the morning. You fill us all up with love. We are so grateful for you. Happy, happy birthday little man.