Late April - Charlotte: Twelve Months Old Seraphine woke to Charlotte standing in her crib, gripping the rails and bouncing excitedly. Not crying for attention just awake and ready to start her day at 5:47 AM, as had become her pattern over the past month. “Morning, sweetheart,” Seraphine said, lifting her out. Charlotte immediately grabbed her face with both hands, a gesture of affection she’d recently adopted. “Happy birthday, baby girl. You’re one year old today.” It seemed impossible. One year since that terrifying early delivery, the NICU stay, bringing home a tiny preemie who fit in Damien’s forearms. Now Charlotte was walking (shakily but determinedly), saying a handful of words (Dada, Mama, “no” used liberally), and displaying a personality that was pure determination wrapped in sweetness. Damien appeared in the nursery doorway with coffee. “Happy birthday, Charlotte Elena. You’ve survived your first year with us as parents. Impressive accomplishment.” “She’s one.” Seraph
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