Thanksgiving....

Yes...I know. It's way past November. But my computer was down and out for so long I didn't get to post my cute pictures.
Shawn's grandparents were visiting from Montana and it was the first time they got to meet Elijah. So it was really special. We split the day between my family and Shawn's (tough thing to master). I was so busy by the time we made it to my house I didn't take any pictures. But here are some from Shawn's mom's and one from the morning after Thanksgiving.



Elijah, Uncle Steve, and Mav

Making some music with the spoon
Great Grandpa showing me how to make some music
Givin' Gramps some lovin'
Playin' hide and seek with Auntie Lacey
Grandma and Great Grandma tryin' to get me to dance
My chubby lil hands...Mommy loves them
My awesome family....I needed some rest
Gettin' into some trouble

One year ago, today!

This time last year I was in the very painful and amazing process of giving birth to my son, Elijah. The past few days have been so emotional for me. When I look at him I still see that 6 lb 14 oz bundle of love that I met for the first time on this day, a year ago. He is getting to be such a big and independent little man. I love waking up to him and seeing the new things that he learns each day. Some of the things he does I wonder where he ever learned them. He never stops making me laugh or feel loved. When I am down he is right there to cuddle me or give me kisses.

I am so overwhelmed with gratefulness that God would entrust this precious and priceless life to me. I am humbled that I am the one He chose to bless with Elijah's presence.

So, on this day, January 15th, I want to say Happy 1st Birthday to my little monkey, Elijah. You have brought more joy and meaning to my life than you will ever know. I can't imagine my life without your giggles. And even though you still wake up every night, I wouldn't trade our quiet times together for a million sleep filled nights. I look forward to being a mommy that teaches you right from wrong. That teaches you to love Jesus and love others. To stand up for what is morally right and your convictions. To be a friend to those who others have rejected. To change the world and not apologize for it. To be a man who respects women and be an involved father. These are all the dreams I wish for you, my little one. You have many years to fulfill them...but I don't think it's ever too early to dream of your destiny.

Mama loves you peanut. Thank you for changing my life, a year ago, today.

P.S. you were worth every single painful contraction (that I threw up every single time with) back and front labor, 2 1/2 hours of pushing, and 36 hours of labor.