Gideon turns one year old this month. An entire year! Three hundred and sixty-five days in this world. It's such an exciting time! He's survived so much and we've only had a few mental breakdowns along the way. But I'll never be sad. Each milestone has been more amazing then the one before! Many people gave me advice before I became a mother, and even more during pregnancy. But the best thing I have done since Gideon was born is take my time doing everything. We take two hours to grocery shop because Gideon likes to look at all the bright colors on the packaging. Getting him dressed is a twenty minute ordeal because he tries to put his socks on by himself. And these things are not a hindrance, they are necessary learning moments that I truly cherish.
I watch him examine every new toy. I love seeing that joy on his face! The moment when his brain learns a new concept is truly amazing; a visible light bulb moment! He's so proud of all the things he can do and will often repeat whatever it is until I laugh with him. Lord willing, there will be plenty of moments like that in the years to come. So I'm not sad.
But there are times. When I lie him down for a diaper change and he spots that toy under the couch. The one that is juuust out of his reach. But it's calling to him, and as he swings his hips around to grab it, the diaper cream smears all over my fingers and onto the carpet. Sigh. But even then, when he giggles victoriously - oblivious to the mess - there's no reason for me to be upset. Deep breath and move on.
But those times do not make me sad.
Getting older, bigger, smarter, sillier, faster... they are times to celebrate! Gideon is so strong. In his year he has survived falling off the couch three times, a cross-country move, a forgetful mother, three plane rides, illnesses, and China Town. (seriously, that place was crazy)
Whether I'm looking back on his first year or looking forward into the next, it is not a time to be sad. He will always be my sweet boy, and I love him very much.
But those times do not make me sad.
Getting older, bigger, smarter, sillier, faster... they are times to celebrate! Gideon is so strong. In his year he has survived falling off the couch three times, a cross-country move, a forgetful mother, three plane rides, illnesses, and China Town. (seriously, that place was crazy)
Whether I'm looking back on his first year or looking forward into the next, it is not a time to be sad. He will always be my sweet boy, and I love him very much.
