The Latest Model

It's so nice to get what you want once in a while. About 10 years ago, Sofia was born on my Mom's birthday. Annika wasn't as cooperative. Instead of hitting my Dad's birthday, she made her arrival on my sister's anniversary. Close.

Third time is a charm, I guess, because this little one was super accommodating and managed to be born two days early, on my Dad's birthday. She even came with time to spare. Since my Dad was born on his mother's birthday, I thought it was only appropriate to name her after her Great-Grandma Cozette. So...drum roll....the latest model is named Cozette Darling Romero (which is an only slightly adulterated version of my Grandma's name. I couldn't get attached to the "Darlene" part, so I altered it a bit.) ...and Cozette and her one-year-old cousin, Lilly, (her destined best friend) get to share that special birthday!

All of that business aside, our little Cozette is beautiful. Everyone is so excited to welcome her into the family.
Anthony was concerned that James would bully her (since he spent all day trying to boss around his younger cousin, Lilly).
Sofia, who was also born with a head of black hair, is thrilled that she finally has a look-alike in the family. (And Sofia was super-brave and well-behaved at the birth!)
Annika was whispering to the baby, "Don't worry. We all love you, and we're going to take good care of you," as she held her at the hospital.
Jonny is being amazingly gentle with his baby sister (normally his hugs knock me over. I call them attack-hugs.)
James thinks the baby should be thoroughly bundled and hatted at all times. He's continually tucking her blanket around her hands or feet (whatever is poking out) and insisting that we replace her hat (so that no one can get a decent picture of her lovely hair). He also told me, "No change the diaper - it's sleeping!" There are exceptions to the "never wake a sleeping baby" rule, James.

A million, billion thanks to my awesome husband, without whom I could never have the courage to push out a baby (regardless of it's cuteness). It's amazing you can get so much comfort and strength from one person's presence...just by holding their hand (maybe a bit tightly) and knowing they are there.