Bye Bye, Year One!

As this year comes to a close, I can't help but look back and smile at how this year as unfolded. This time last year I was enjoying my first week on maternity leave, writing off my constant contractions as Braxton Hicks, and indulging in the last days of my sweet slumber!

One year ago..

The first few months of Rosalie's life were a blur. I was barely sleeping, I was still in pain from recovery, and breastfeeding for the first time was difficult. I never realized how tough having a baby was and it took a lot of strength and patience to accept the reality of caring for a newborn. It also took some adjusting for me to get used to being stuck in the house at least 22 hours a day and never having time for myself anymore.

As the months went by, she grew while I learned. I learned every aspect of her personality, breastfeeding became a breeze, and leaving the house was now more difficult than staying home. I feel like I've evolved more this year than I ever have in my entire life. The process wasn't easy, but I feel like the ugly little caterpillar that had to endure months in a cocoon to finally emerge as a beautiful butterly.

This has been one of the best and most fulfilling years of my life. I said goodbye to partying and late nights and welcomed the world of early mornings and busy days with baby in tow.There are some mothers who are ready for the challenge right off the bat, and there are some, like me, who need some time to soak it all in. It might've taken me a few months, but I am happier now than I have ever been. I look back on her days as a tiny little thing, not able to move or speak and realize how much she needed me then. Looking at her now, it makes me so happy and proud to see a bustling baby girl who is healthy and smart and becoming more and more independent. It's like..Wow. Not only did Anthony and I make her out of nothing, but she grew into something quite special because of us and I'm deeply in love.

From her birth to her baptism and now her first birthday, I'm so thankful for the people who have always supported and loved us. I couldn't have done any of it without all the encouragement and help that I received from everyone. From the largest gifts to the smallest gestures, you've helped more than you'll ever know. To our loving family and friends who have been there for us from day one, THANK YOU. From the bottom of my heart, I send you my love and gratitude.

It's kind of cool that Rosalie's birthday marks the start of a brand new year...it's the perfect way to welcome another 365 days of surprises! So here's to the beginning of 2012 and whatever challenges may come...Cheers!