It's Been a Year

  It's been a year of surprises.

A year of laughter, tears, confusion, chaos, and joy.

A year of changing thousands of diapers and knowing there is still at least another full year left. 

A year of learning to receive graciously. Receiving isn't always easy, but sometimes, the only choice you have is to humbly take what others offer because it is literally all you have. 

Diapers, wipes, a car seat, stroller, gift cards, monetary gifts, clothes, soap, blankets, a pack and play. 

The essentials is all you really need.

A year of learning you don't need what society says you need for a baby.

 Hours were spent laying on a bed and simply admiring a beautiful, healthy, perfect, baby.

A year of taking thousands of pictures to capture every single precious moment. 

A year of memorizing children's books.

A year of singing, "Pete The Cat" songs. 

A year of watching in amazement the development of a once tiny, helpless baby.

A year of getting excited over things such as teeth, rolling over, and sleeping through the night.

A year of being overwhelmed in the baby section at the store.

A year of breastfeeding. The most beautiful and important thing I had to offer. 

The best decision I have ever made.

A year of having less money than we have ever had, and being completely happy. 

A year of firsts.

Not only firsts for a baby, but firsts for two parents who had and have not a clue what they are doing. 

A year of change in personal lives, relationships, and location.

A year of falling completely and beautifully in love with a baby I didn't even know existed until he arrived.

A year of broken sleep.

Being exhausted, but looking at a sweet, sleepy face and not minding at all. 

A year of overcoming guilt and "what ifs."

A year of falling asleep with a sleeping baby on your chest.

A year of sweet giggles and joyful shrieks.

A year of unexpected, but welcomed change....