I don't use my kids' real names on the blog, so they picked out AndyGriffith Show-related names a couple of years back.  Dear Son 1 (aka "Earnest T.")  and Dear Daughter 1 (alias, "Thelma Lou")  chose a lovely name for our new arrival last year. "Charlene Darlin' ".

Well, Charlene Darlin' was 1 year old yesterday.  Hubby arranged the little birthday party  since I was still recovering from surgery. We had such a sweet time, but  missed going to church yesterday.  CD didn't have a clue what was going on, but she had a great time eating cake and playing with her shape-sorting ball.

What a year it has been. God spared me from death just hours after delivering her last year. He has allowed her Grandfather to survive cancer this year. And now He's brought me through more health stuff. Time has flown by, but we've tried really hard to savor milestones and make memories.

Charlene Darlin', happy first birthday.  We love you!