How is my baby now a one year old?! According to my updates from babycenter.com, he's now a "toddler." Nah...still a baby to me.
We celebrated Gavin's first birthday Sesame Street style. We had it at a clubhouse that we were lucky enough to have connections to reserve--however, even with it being covered on three sides- Mommy needs to realize that an outdoor party in early February (even in Florida) is probably not the best idea! It was cold, windy and damp- and..of course, Gavin ended up getting a cold (at least one other child did, too). So, next year- indoors.
It's amazing to reflect back on the past 52 (54 weeks now) weeks. I can remember when I referred to Gavin as X number of "weeks" old; then at some point it went to X number of months old. I am forever thankful that the first couple months of being a first time Mom are FOREVER OVER. There is no sugar-coating that while it was wonderful to look at my precious baby- the majority of my thoughts were on how dang tired and desperate I was; wondering if it would ever get better.
Life will not. ever. be the same (for like another decade or so--ahhh). But, life is richer every day having a family; being a Mom. Growing independence of my "toddler" is at times trying (God's grace with growing my patience is unbelievable) but also wonderful to experience. It's so nice that I can now sit Gavin down in the morning after our cuddles with a sippy of milk, some cheerios/toast/waffle in the living room and put on a baby einstein/veggie tales DVD and finish getting myself ready for work (Note: Dogs must be either outside or in another room with door closed or they WILL steal cheerios/toast/waffle).
Changing a diaper is an acrobatic feat for Gavin and a major obstacle course for Mommy or Daddy. Restraining my child on the changing table is an every day occurrence at this point. He's got SO to much else to do rather than lay down; but is instantly happy once that pee or poo diaper is changed and he's on his merry way.
NINE teeth and counting...a molar has arrived and brought the worst diaper rash thus far. Brushing teeth: another time of minor baby/toddler restraint. I let him "brush" his own teeth with a baby toothbrush for a minute or two, then get in there for a few real brushes...heaven forbid Mommy try to protect those gorgeous little teeth---enter a crying, writhing of the body moment- both in the morning and after bath at night. I've got to get smart share some of the tooth brushing fun with Daddy. Daddy's current status is WAY to fun/painless.
Combining words: yesterday Gavin said "dadda momma" in a row while we were all at the dinner table. He also said something that sounded like "amen" after our dinner prayer! On another note: spaghetti dinner ended up everywhere other than in Gavin's mouth/stomach (except for some bread). Our strategy for dinner: don't stress about it- he's a big breakfast and lunch eater- usually could care less about consuming much at dinner. Apparently this is "normal," babies/toddlers consume most of their calories before dinner time. He also gets a bottle of milk before bed (then rudely has his teeth wiped by Mommy to prevent bottle decay).
Gavin is taking his time with walking; as he has with other gross motor developments :) In observing my child thus far with this type of developmental milestone, with new toys and with new people/situations; he likes to observe first/take his time and then go for it. Smart boy! :) He's walking along everything he can; pulling Mommy's pants/shorts, etc. down as he pulls himself up on me and standing unassisted for short periods of time.
In closing, today is St. Valentine's Day. Any chance to acknowledge those I love is welcomed. It's also important for me to acknowledge the ONE who shows me how to love and loves more perfectly that I could ever be capable of- God.
Mommyhood continues....
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