Claire Perie Stibbe turned 1 on April 21. We celebrated in typical StibbeFam fashion—woke up early, left for school late, had three appointments, and a meeting that evening. What lacked in actual celebration was made up for in happiness, excitement, and more rounds of “Happy Birthday to You” than you really want to hear from 5 year old’s and a 3 year old 😉

She was truly the missing puzzle piece to this amazing life we created, and our family wouldn’t be complete without her.

One year ago, our world was turned upside down. It is so easy to look at everything life has thrown at us and be angry; but we can’t be angry—we are so, so incredibly fortunate to have this life, and these kids. 

Claire is the definition of “Small but Mighty.” At one year, she is:

• Sassy
• Tenacious
• Happy
• Moody
• Beautiful
• Curious

• Army crawling
• Eating anything and everything
• Babbling up a storm (says Mama, Dada, BaBa)—and every saying “Mama” intentionally
• Bearing weight on your legs (finally!)!
• Waving
• Mimicking kisses

Happy 1st birthday to the little girl that absolutely stole our hearts. This little beauty has taught us more in one year than I could have hoped to learn in one lifetime. Claire Perie–you are filled with so much joy and your happiness radiates to everyone you encounter. The world is a better, brighter place because of you, and I am so lucky to have a front row seat to witness the many ways in which you will change it.