Happy 1st birthday, Little Man!

Last night, I went to sleep with a precious and wonderful baby. This morning I woke up with a precious and wonderful toddler. 

How on earth did that happen?? Exactly  one year ago I was frantically trying to find a day care so I could officially accept the short-term placement of a newborn. Today I am frantically trying to keep up as that once-newborn speeds around the house.

Honestly, I am struggling to wrap my brain around it. In some ways it feels like it was yesterday that I got a text saying “the baby was born, and it’s a boy!” In other ways it feels like he’s always been a part of my life and my family. 

The past 12 months have been incredibly challenging. There have been moments of exhaustion, loneliness and stress- sometimes all at once. But those lows are so far out-shadowed by the highs- all the moments of joy and gratitude, the countless giggles and snuggles, the sheer amazement of watching someone experiencing everything for the very first time… It’s just such a gift. 

Being Little Man’s mom has taught me about patience and determination, joy and grace, courage and strength. I mean, I don’t want to pat myself on the back too much here, but basically I feel like I’ve become the best, most badass version of myself. To date, at any rate.

But really- I feel incredibly fortunate and immeasurably thankful to have shared so many adventures with this little guy throughout the past year. We’ve been on 12 planes, visited 4 states, gone to Hogwarts (and Hogsmeade), attended one incredible concert, ran in a 5k, cheered on the 2-time Big XII champs in their home stadium (sic ‘em), bought a house, moved into said house, fed a giraffe, and a lot more. I think it’s safe to say he’s had an eventful first year.

As I take time to reflect on the year behind us, I have to take a moment to say thank you. Yes, you!

Thank you for the support you’ve given us- even if it’s just through reading about our story here. My mom posted about Little Man’s birthday on her Facebook page this morning, and I honestly teared up as I saw how many people commented with encouragement and well-wishes- many of them people I haven’t even met. It’s humbling to know that our adventure matters to so many people. So, really- thank you for loving and supporting us. I truly am grateful.

So happy birthday, Little Man! I’m thankful for the adventures behind us, and excited for the adventures that lie ahead….