A Year of Mommyhood

Hard to believe it's been a whole year since I became a mom.  I remember thinking during the first month or so after he was born "when will this get easier?" And then one day it just did, and each day it got a little more easy.  Don't get me wrong, it's not a walk in the park now; but it's a zillion times better than it was. I feel much more comfortable and am really enjoy spending time with him. As we all know, everything usually gets better with time.

We didn't have a huge shindig for his first birthday - just a few kiddos (and their parents) at a local playground. Although I know he won't remember a thing about it, it was still be a special day that I hope he enjoyed. You only turn one once, right?

He gets called "she" a lot - and not because I dress him in pink! It's because of his curls. Not that it would matter, anyways, as I know that not everyone pays attention; girls with bows and headbands get called "he" all the time.  Usually I don't correct the random people that say things to him, unless they ask a question or "her" name.  I don't mind it though, as long as they're being nice to him!  I'm amazed by how many strangers are so friendly to him. Mostly women and children - but sometimes men, too. Especially at the place where my husband works; the people there are so sweet to him.

He's definitely starting to show more personality and is loving the freedom of crawling.  We can tell when he doesn't like something or gets frustrated when he can't do what he wants to do.  I know it has to be maddening when he can't communicate effectively. We are trying to use some sign language and other hand gestures to help him, and he seems to be catching on a little.  Hopefully that will make it a little easier for him.  He knows his name, when we say "no" and knows how to give us "five."  I love watching him learn and discover things. It's great to be such an important part of his life. 

It's really amazing how having a child changes the whole focus of your life.  Not that I don't sometimes wish I had more time for myself for my hobbies and some good girl time, or that hubby and I could have a date night now and then.  But I know that time will fly by so fast, and that he'll be 18 before I know it - and I'll be missing these days. We just have to have a good balance of everyone's needs and make sure to enjoy the moment, no matter how small it is.