Typical Last Child...

the poor baby of the family.

You have never had a photo shoot, devoted solely to yourself.

After five birthdays, you've had only two invitations made.

All of the Firsts in our home, have already been accomplished.

You've never had your own bedroom, you even share a bed.

You can't even get your birthday blog, on your actual birthday...

 

But you are not ignored.
You would never allow that to happen, not even for a moment.
You are utterly and completely exhausting. 
You are the loud, bright, attention stealing Grand Finale of the most grand firework show.  Born with the absolute certainty that we 'saved the best for last'.

My Coco is a bundle of enthusiastic giggles, drama-program expressions and bedazzled Jazz Hands.  She absorbs the energy from every room, she chases falling stars and attacks each day with Christmas Morning excitement. 

Coco is friendly, kind and without prejudice as she chooses her new friends.  I picture a young Coach, so much like his baby girl.  Happily waving, skipping with anticipation for each new activity.. running to 'catch-up' to their older siblings. Coco/Coach eagerly wants to be just as fast as her sister, just as tall as her brother, with just as many friends and just as many stories at dinner.  And like her father, she is genuinely sympathetic towards each family member.  She craves all our love and equally returns our affection.  She worries if we are injured, she cheers as we perform, she races to hold our hands and searches the crowd for each of our smiles.

But unlike her father, Coco is quick with her little competitive temper.  Quick to stomp a foot or throw a toy, if she feels ignored or unfairly (according to her) disciplined.  Coco wants everything RIGHT NOW.
At five years old, I'm afraid she has nearly defeated me.  Her will is strong, her spirit is stubborn and her confidence is unwavering. She has made it clear that no one will ever put this baby in a corner.

When she slows, for just a moment, just long enough to capture a quick picture or to hug her tightly, or to catch her sleeping so deeply.... you are struck by her beauty.  Beneath the blur of rhinestones and sass, hides the most adorably freckled nose.  Coco's crazy chocolate brown curls float around her, as her full snow white lips, curl easily into the sneakiest smile.. And her Kaleidoscope eyes, change according to her mood or environment. Even her eyes are too spirited to settle on just one color.

To My Baby-
There have been many days, when you have completely spent your mother.  Often weeks have passed where you have won more days than I have.  Raising you will likely be the death of me... But I accept the challenge.  The walls of our home echo with your joy.  You are the sweetest treat in our chocolate box called life. You make us more. I was missing you.. before I met you.
Happy Fifth Birthday, my bouncing baby girl.
You win, I love you a bajillion ka-zillion times best.