Almost One!

I can't believe Joel will be one in two days! It was one year ago today that I got the first call from Naomi about Courtney, who was supposedly a couple of weeks away from having her baby. Surprise! This year has gone by so fast. I can't believe that the ornery little guy I see now was the same fragile, tiny little angel in the NICU. We had a birthday celebration with Susan, Sarah, and Katie last weekend. We had fun with that! Joel was a little confused, but loved his balloons and his cake. He even got some pizza crust, so it was a big night for him! :0) We have two parties for him this weekend, so we will be "birthday-ed out" by Monday! He is constantly on the go and keeps me busy all day. Today's discoveries: the dryer door (which he beats like a drum) and the toilet paper (which he unrolls with amazing speed and dexterity!). Since he can now escape from his exerciser, there is no peace for Mommy (or Bailey either, for that matter!). The best part is that he wears himself out crawling all over and has been taking nice naps for me. :0) He is getting much better with his balance and can stand for several seconds unsupported. He has been taking a couple of steps around the furniture, but nothing out in the open yet. It won't be long! He has his last RSV prevention shot tomorrow, and sees the doctor next week for his check up. They will be drawing blood at that appointment, so I'm making sure that Daddy goes along! He also gets his one year pictures taken on his actual birthday at 6:00....Daddy is going along for that, too. Friday night is my Grandma's birthday dinner, and his parties are Saturday and Sunday. Boy will we be tired by Sunday night! There has never been a little boy more loved and more treasured by his parents (and everyone else!) and we can't wait to see what the next year brings! I've posted lots of pictures....Enjoy! More later.