A year in Reverse

Our sweet Ava Grace is 17 months old today.

It feels like it was yesterday that we brought her home.
Those first few weeks were so tough on me. A true testament to who I am as a mommy.

Sensitive. In a word. Hyper-sensitive. In two.

I cried for days about how I was going to get her up the stairs. So not kidding.

Post-partum at it's finest -

And I stared at her. A lot. Almost obsessively.

Perhaps every new mother feels this way? (please tell me I am not crazy)

I still ache when I look at her. I do.

Especially when she is sleeping. At peace. 

I love her with every part of my being.

I often wish I had started this little blog earlier and documented her first year.

But I know in my heart that I would not have managed. There was the whole no sleep at all thing.

So here is a glimpse into her first year - 
our little miss.

Dear Ava,

Friends told us that a new baby would bring so much love and laughter into the house - they were right.
 You are such a joy - always smiling. Always happy.

Each morning begins the same way...with you calling out for mama.
Clutching your Bobo and looking from room to room for your big sister and brother.
Playing "under". And giggling.
You love to be outside. Or to just walk around the house. And talk. A lot.
You give the best hugs and kisses.
And have finally started to sleep. I still get to visit at least once per night but things are much better.
I am so blessed to have been home to spend all of the early months with you.
I couldn't imagine a life without you in it.
xo
mommy