So no time for this...

Well, I am writing a blog. I am also wondering what makes me think I have time to be doing this when I am preparing for a birthday party in 3 hours and packing for an overseas trip, departing tomorrow! Also beginning to question the logic of having a party today when the sanity meter in my head is already beginning to go akilter as it does in preparation for a major trip... Half the time I feel like there is not that much left to do, the other half of the time I am on near melt down... Weird! But I figure, I will get it all done somehow and I would like to document this moment as it is a significant day.

My baby girl is one! Hard to believe that this time last year I was cradling this gorgeous, fresh faced, darling girl in my arms for the first time. What a sweet addition to our family she is. Looking so like her big sister and yet such a distinct and delightful personality. It has truly been a joy watching her grow this last year. One thing that stands out probably the most about her is her smily-ness. She loves to smile and make people smile at her. She is a real charmer and, I believe, has melted the hearts of many, not least of all her own parents.

Its been really special to watch Esther and Charlotte as sisters, relating to one another. I especially love it when they are laughing at each other. I think that sound (especially as opposed to them both crying) is the most amazing and addictive sound in the world! I love their laughter. It's also beautiful to see how Esther loves her little sister and babys her. 'oh what a little sweetie heart, my darling baby girl' she will coo in a sickly sweet voice. I love it! So hilarious and lovely.

Hard to believe too, that it was only a year ago that I officially became a 'domestic goddess' as Shane wrote that on the birth forms and the government approved my occupation as such forever more. Inscribed permanently on Charlotte's birth certificate! Ha! It was interesting as what started out as a joke has turned into a life calling! Well I am only half serious, the whole domestic goddess is of course very tongue in cheek, but I do desire to be the best mum, and wife and housekeeper and woman of God that I can be. Domestic goddess is just scratching the surface!

I was really freaked out about looking after two children. Didn't know if I could cope. I was really emotional and fragile (and overtired!) for the first few weeks. I am sure many mums can emphathise with me here. It was during this time that I really began asking God to help me, in a desperete sort of way. I just knew I couldn't do it without his strength. I couldn't do justice to the awesome task of parenting without his supernatural help. So I asked, and he has answered me and continues to answer me whenever I ask. I ask for eyes to see beyond today, for hope and encouragement for enthusiasm, for love and patience. I ask that I might enjoy each day and enjoy my children. He is helping me do this, and it was really through becoming a parent of two I began to understand dependence on God. Charlotte's middle name is Faith and I think that is perfect. I pray that she will grow into a young woman who puts her trust in God and I thank him for trusting me to mother this beautiful little girl. Happy Birthday Charlotte!