Change

As Charlotte is approaching her first birthday, I am reminded of how much things change once you have a baby. Here is a list of a few things that have changed for me since having my first baby, three and a half years ago.

1. My heart actually grew... and continues to grow.
   
2. My heart breaks more easily.


3. I worry more about my kids appearance than my own.


4. Every day I solve 1,000,000,000 problems.
   
5. Every day I answer 1,000,000 questions.


6. I yearn for a few minutes of alone time, but miss them terribly when they are away.


7. I have a new respect for parents, especially my own.


8. I now look at other children as "somebody's baby."


9. Taking a long shower is a luxury.


10. I want to look like I have it together, when really I can't even get out the door complete.


11. Eating out is not as much fun as it used to be.


12. I look at my baby in the mirror instead of myself.


13. My 42" HDTV strictly plays kid programs.


14. Every day is a surprise!


15. I would rather buy new clothes for my kids instead of myself.


16. My kids are more "stylish" than me.


17. I can read the same book over and over and over and over...


18. Bath time isn't just for cleaning - it's a whole new adventure.


19. I know that giving up those skinny jeans was worth it.


20. I realize that I am much stronger than I ever thought possible.


21. I once believed I was fearless, but now am afraid.


22. The sacrifice I thought I made no longer seems like a sacrifice.


23. I have choices, but not really.


24. My dog is really just "my dog."


25. Nap time is priceless.


26. I never get tired of hearing my babies call me "mommy."

Tears

Last night I had tears in eyes. Tears of joy, sadness, excitement, surprise, admiration and pride.

Charlotte took her first real steps AND said "mama." She'd taken a few steps before while Craig and I encouraged her to 'walk' between us on the floor. Mostly she would take a step and then lunge towards us with a big smile. She loves the little game of walking back and forth between mommy and daddy.

Tonight was different. She would get up on her own and then take a few steps towards us. We slowly started moving backwards so that she had to take 10 steps to reach us. She did it without lunging too. After almost 5 minutes - smiles and all, she said, "Mama" while walking towards me. I was so proud. I just couldn't help it - my eyes were full of tears.

Tears of joy - my little girl is doing so well!
Tears of sadness - my little girl isn't a baby anymore.
Tears of excitement - my little girl is growing up.
Tears of admiration - my little girl can do it.
Tears of pride - my little girl is amazing!