Growing Pains

John Parker turned two last Thursday. My baby is now officially a toddler. I know, I know, technically little ones become toddlers once they start walking, but I love calling John Parker my baby. I'm blessed in that I had a few extra months of having a baby since JP was so late to walk. He's still quite the little cuddler which I love. It doesn't happen everyday, but most mornings or after naps I can steal a few minutes with him just cuddling and reading in his chair.
We've officially lost his bumpers, put away all of his nursery decor and have changed his room to a train theme. We're debating as to when we'll put on the toddler rails. I'm just not sure he's ready or maybe it's me that's not ready.

I do love the little guy that he's becoming. He loves to drink from a big boy cup and insists that he feed himself. I love that he's becoming more bold-like climbing his playhouse and putting his foot up on his crib. He makes the cutest noise when he plays with his cars and trucks. He is really into the game "Go and Stop". It's our favorite road game when we stop at a light. He and Duke are best buds. He loves to pet him, chase him around the house, and pester him while he eats his foods. I love that he loves to do what I do. He'll gladly help me load the dishwasher or washing machine. He likes to mow the yard and sweep the porch. (Don't be mislead, I rarely ever do these things:)) Two is going to be a good year. I'm sure it will have it's challenges. Tantrums will become more frequent and his independence will likely try my patience. I'm looking forward to this new chapter of toddler hood. Bring it on...

Little Boy Blue

Lately, I've had some time to reflect on how wonderful it is to be a mom. It's definitely the hardest and yet most rewarding job that I've ever had. It requires more of me than I ever could have thought or imagined. It's truly a gift to be able to celebrate the little and big accomplishments of your child's life. I never knew that my heart could well up with so much love. Sure, there are times of sheer exhaustion when he's fussy or when you tire of yet another load of laundry, but I wouldn't change it for the world.

Season of Thankfulness

We love our little guy!



Hanging with Uncle D



Little Mr. Smiles



Has Hanson come back? :) Just trying to picture JP as a brunette!



Cuddling with Pops



Thanksgiving took on new meaning this year as John and I reflected on the greatest gift that we have experienced as a couple-the gift of a son. Our life has been turned upside down in a good way. Over the last few months, we've learned that being a parent requires sacrifice and a great measure of God's mercy. Being a parent while challenging at times brings so many rewards. Our life is much richer today because of John Parker.

Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him. Psalm 127:3

Putting my Running Shoes on again!

For those of you that know me, you know that I love to run. My running had fallen to the wayside once I got pregnant. Walking has been my only form of exercise in the last year, so you can imagine my joy to start running again. On Saturday morning, I laced up my shoes and ran the Pancreatic Cancer Reseach 5K Race.

Let's be honest; it was no cake walk. I am very out of shape, but it felt great to get out there and run for a good cause. I had the best cheering squad in town. My sweet husband and little man braved the cold November morning and managed to meet me at every mile. I've learned that even though your time is not your own as a mom. It's important to take time to do things that you enjoy, so that you can be the best that you can be. So, I'm breaking out my running shoes again, and it feels great.

Closing a Chapter

I have always thought of myself as one that thrives on change. Afterall, variety is the spice of life, right? Lately, I've started to think that I might not be as adaptable as I once thought. Perhaps, it's because I feel like so much in my life is changing at the same time.

The biggest change in my life next to having John Parker has been deciding to be a stay at home mommy. I am extremely excited to have the opportunity to invest in our little guy and to experience all of his firsts. As most of you know, I like to celebrate the little things and each day with him is filled with so many exciting little things.

Last week was harder than I expected. I went into WellCare to turn in my equipment and to say my good-byes. I found myself filled with mixed emotions as I talked with collegues and friends. Working in corporate America has been one of my identities for the last 8 years. I feel blessed to have worked with some amazing people and to have been challenged to really grow as a HR Generalist/Recruiter. While I know those friendships remain, I know that this chapter of my life has closed for now.

Am I excited about the next chapter of my life story? The answer is a resounding yes. I just need to accept that this change from full time employee to stay at home mom isn't going to happen overnight. That's the beauty of life--we can reflect on each closed chapter and be filled with delight as we embrace a new chapter.

Weight Gain Wonder

As a new mother, I've found myself intently focused on watching my son pack on the pounds. It's as if each ounce should be celebrated because he is healthy and growing. Each time he gets weighed I find myself on pins and needles as I await the results. Last Wednesday, our little guy weighed in at 9 lbs and 11 oz. I've been marvelling at his chubby cheeks and at the rolls on his thighs. These are the things that every parent loves, aren't they? Wouldn't we all love it if people cheered and celebrated when we gained a pound? Oh, to be a baby again! :)

Top 5 Takeaways

Wow, it's still so amazing to think about how much our lives have changed over the last few weeks. My heart has expanded in ways that I never thought was possible. Although John Parker will be 3 weeks on Tuesday, our world already seems vastly different. Here are the top 5 takeaways from my brief journey as a mommy.

1. Take advantage of every minute. I feel like I am going to blink and he'll be off to kindergarten and then turning 16 and asking me for the keys to the car. I want to savor these moments of his sweet innocence and new beginnings.

2. Roll with the punches. Some days are more carefree than others. One day he may look into my eyes as if I've hung the moon and others it seems like all my new mom tricks seem to miss the mark.

3. This too shall pass. We know that these sleepless nights are temporary and that they are all a part of joining the parenting club. We're looking forward to longer periods of sleep a few months from now.

4. Count your blessings. We have been surrounded by such amazing support over the last few weeks as family and friends have come for visits, dropped off meals, brought gifts for the little guy and sent cards. We couldn't have done it without your encouragement and support.

5. Don't always live by the book. I have read quite a few books on parenting and sleep habits prior to John Parker's birth. Somehow all the theory in the world can't prepare you for real life. I've learned that you have to go with your instincts. Your baby is uniquely wired, and it's been neat to learn what makes my little man tick.

The learning has just begun. John Parker is making sense of this great big world while we learn to explore the world through his eyes.