ONE YEAR

My sweet little baby is now a big one year old boy.  The year has gone by so fast, as every year seems to.  Having a son is better than I ever expected.  I LOVE my little family and the unique experience that I have had getting to know each of my little kiddos.

This is the last picture I remember taking before having Carter.  HUGE.  I remember how painful that belly was.  Looking at this picture makes me hurt. 

 And, then I get happy because I know he is about to come out...

 

 

Two of my most favorite pictures from that day.  Life is good and complete...

 He was handsome his first day of life.  Prettiest baby boy I've ever known. 

 Annabelle was excited when we came home with her new brother. 

 I didn't get much rest at the hospital because all I could do was stare at him...

 In my only two experiences, the first couple weeks at home with a new baby are my favorite.  I have this amazing sense of peace and joy that I can't explain.  Even through the exhaustion and through all of the other overwhelming emotions, I have pure joy.  I feel like every time I breathe, it's a breath of relief and happiness.  That is the best way I can explain it.  It's a couple weeks of getting to know this baby and how they fit in to your family.  Getting to know a stranger, in a sense.  But, the best stranger you have ever met.  God fills my heart with this crazy love.  A new love for a new person, and then an even deeper love for my husband.  It's a precious time, and it makes me want at least one more experience like this.  Having babies has been one of the greatest gifts.

Carter has grown up so much in just a year.  It's really crazy how much kids change in only a few months.  I am so proud of him.  We are continuing to get to know him and his silly, sweet personality.  Watching this sibling relationship makes my heart do jumping salts and summer jacks all day.  Being a mom to Carter and Annabelle and a wife to Craig is my purpose and calling, and I couldn't be more thankful to God for allowing me to have these roles.  I am a totally and completely imperfect mom and wife.  I make mistakes.  I get frustrated.  Some days, I feel like i really might be going insane.  (for real, though)  Sometimes I feel like a frazzled, crazy person.  But, I love it.  I love my life.  And I give all the thanks and glory to God for giving me this life.


  HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY SWEET CARTER!  

I love you so much!