Thursday, September 24, 2015

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…. 

4 comments:

  1. Happy birthday to your little boy and happy anniversary of mom-hood to you, Kaley! Your story is such a gift to read and an inspiration--thank you.

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  2. I love reading about your dream coming true. Such a happy story!

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  3. He is one loved little boy! I love seeing how selflessly you parent and how much joy he brings to everyone. We are thankful to have yall as friends!

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  4. It is so hard to believe it's been a year since your precious son came into your life, for that matter, all of our lives! What an amazing journey and blessing! Love to you both!
    Want to show him snow and/or mountains? Come to Colorado! You're always welcome!

    ReplyDelete

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