Sydney turns one in a few days, so I’ve been thinking a lot about the incredible journey in mommy-hood I’ve had this past year. Here are five things that stick out in my mind the most:
1. True Love: I learned that love at first sight really does exist. And going back even further, love at the first sound of a heartbeat on an ultrasound exists, too. But the first time I looked into my baby girl’s eyes, my heart melted into a puddle. The meaning of true love for me has evolved into something so much larger than I can even put into words…and that’s difficult for a writer to admit. I strive to show and tell Sydney every day just how much she is loved.
2. My Husband, the Hero: When our acid reflux-suffering newborn couldn’t be soothed – and I broke down in tears – he took charge. He was the first to master swaddling and diaper changes. He is eager to read to her, play and dance with her, and sing her to sleep (no matter how bad we sound during our “You Are My Sunshine” duet). Yep, he has this Daddy thing down pat…and I knew he would. But he has exceeded my expectations by leaps and bounds. Admittedly, I tend to get caught up in the busyness of parenthood, but I hope he knows that my love for him grows stronger every day as I watch him get wrapped tighter and tighter around Sydney’s finger. He was my hero before she was born, and I’m thankful I get to see him become Sydney’s hero too.
3. Time Flies When You’re Having Fun: Pink Floyd was right in their song “Time” with the line “every year is getting shorter, never seem to find the time.” This has been the fastest year of my life. And other moms have told me it gets faster and faster. I guess it’s because your baby is growing and learning new skills so quickly with each passing month that before you know it, you have a walking, talking toddler. This year has taught me to cherish every moment, big or small, and to try and have a record (photo, video, journal, etc.) of every milestone and fun memory in an effort to never forget them…and probably even embarrass her with them when she’s a teenager.
4. Thanks, Mom and Dad: I’ve gained a new appreciation for my parents and how they raised me. They were new parents once too, probably stressed out about the same things I have, but they got through it. And I think I turned out pretty well. I hope I can instill in Sydney the same values that I carried with me from childhood into adulthood. So thank you to my parents for all you did for me as a child (and to Tim’s parents for raising such a wonderful son), and all you do for us as Sydney’s grandparents. She is so lucky to have you all in her life.
5. Mother/Daughter Bonding: Becoming a mother has brought the greatest joy into my life. I can’t say Sydney’s name without having a big grin on my face. She makes me proud every single day, whether it’s because she’s done something new or just because she gave me her signature smile when I walked through the door. In one short year, we have already shared so many special mother/daughter moments that I will cherish the rest of my life. Happy 1st Birthday, Sydney! Mama loves you to the moon and back!
