Olivia

Ten years ago, in the wee hours of the morning, I noticed I was more uncomfortable than usual. By mid-morning I was very suspicious that this could be The Day. By early afternoon, I knew it was definitely going to be The Day. By 8:19 that night, it was proven when Kathryn Olivia Hibbard made her appearance in the world and uttered her first cry.

New Arrival 5

I was a mom, and this beautiful creature made it happen. Olivia - newborn

I learned a lot about myself that first year of her life, and she was so patient with me. I’m still convinced she was the perfect baby.

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I could hardly believe it when her first birthday rolled around.

Olivia 10

It’s true what they say – if you blink, you’ll miss it. Today I’m celebrating a full decade with this amazing child. A decade! Miraculously, I’ve been able to spend all ten years right where I’ve wanted to be – at home with her.

Olivia 9

The perfect baby turned into a little girl, and her little personality revealed itself more and more with each new day.

Olivia 8

Each year as I’ve taken her birthday pictures, I’ve marveled at how much more grown up she seems.

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I’ve marveled at the new signs of maturity…and chuckled at the things that remind me she’s still a little girl.

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This year I’ve gotten to see her establish her independent self more than ever before. She and Angela have always done almost everything together and have wanted identical things. But, the older Olivia’s grown, the more she’s discovered her own interests and has branched away from what she and Angela have always done together.

Olivia 5

Olivia still loves Bunny, reading, and playing with her brother and sister. She’s still fascinated with history, and still wants to take things apart.

Olivia 4

But, she’s also discovered that she really doesn’t like to dress up and just isn’t prissy. She likes wearing pants, getting dirty, and climbing trees. If it’s messy, she’s happy!

Olivia 3

But she’s definitely still a little lady. She wants to learn to cook and sew. She has learned that she really does enjoy writing, and she’s gained a greater confidence in math this year.

Olivia 2

Olivia, I’m so thankful to have had you for ten years. You are beautiful and a blessing to me as your mommy. I thank God daily for blessing me with you, and I so greatly look forward to watching you grow the next decade. May your heart hunger for your Savior more and more with each passing day.

Olivia 1

Comments

Choate Family said…
Oh, friend, she's changed so much in the last year! Better get that shotgun ready...
Lovely - very lovely! Your daughter and your tribute :D

Julie
Thank you, Julie!

Joanna, I cannot express the delight of seeing your comment! I love having you "back," precious friend!

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