I remember that Friday in October. I got a call from our case worker, which was pretty normal since we were just over 2 weeks from Jace’s adoption date. She said, “JayCee, I know you planned to close your home to foster placements, but Jace’s biological mother just gave birth to a baby girl. She’s currently in the NICU. Because you have her brother, I wanted to ask you first. Can you take her?” I asked if I could talk things over with Jake and get back to her in half an hour.

Jake and I both sobbed on the phone to each other, right where we were. He cried in the gym, while I cried there in TJ Maxx. All I could think is I wanted her in our home, but I didn’t know how we could do it. I had felt like I just found a balance with motherhood, Jace, and my business.

I'm fairly certain I told Jake that I couldn’t do it. I mean, two kids only 13 and a half months apart while running a business with just a few days notice really did seem impossible. And I remember Jake saying, “We have to keep them together. They’re brother and sister.”

The past 9 months have been by far the hardest months of my entire life. I’ve been drowning in work and motherhood ever since, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. Jules really has taught me so much, especially patience. It was a difficult first few months, but we made it through. Now that I can leave Jace and Jules together in a room for more than 20 seconds, it’s kind of a game changer.

Here’s a few things about Juliette.

She’s smiles IMMEDIATELY when you smile at her. Like, no hesitation. Just loves smiles and eye contact from anyone.

She’s crawling and cruising furniture all day, every day.

Babbles and growls often.

Loves Jace so much. Watches what he does and tries copying. She tolerates about 95% of his “close and in your personal space” habits he has.

We’re so happy to have Jules a part of our family. She really is the perfect addition. Happy Gotcha Day Juliette!