My Jacob

The fastest year of my life is over - Jacob turns one year old today. Just like Jennie's, Jacob's baby book has a great spot to write him a letter. As I did for Jennie when she turned one (Mosca Mommy post on 12/9/10), I have written a letter for Jacob.

So, for today and from now on, I don't say, "Merry Christmas" on December 24th... I say, "Happy Birthday, Jacob!" first.

Dear Jacob,

12/24/2011

Before you came, I felt that my heart was completely full; I couldn't foresee how you would change my capacity for love . And then, surprise! You arrived ten days early on December 24, 2011 as the newest love of my life – my Jacob, my baby boy. I instantly adored you, and could not imagine life without you. Today you turn one year old, and I can hardly believe it! In one blink of my eyes, you went from a tiny, perfect newborn baby to an adorable, beautiful little boy whose smile and giggle bring joy to every room you come barreling into.

Your road to one-year-old was not a smooth one.  Just three weeks after you were born, you had surgery. The hardest thing I've ever had to do was give you a kiss, send you into the OR, and wait. Nervous doesn't begin to describe how I felt – my precious, sweet baby boy was having surgery! I felt ill. It didn't seem possible that a baby so small and innocent should have to go through that. But you did – and you handled it better than I did. Then, a few weeks after surgery you were back in the hospital for an infection. And then, you developed reflux problems. But, through it all, you were always happy and easy going. I hope that throughout your life you never lose that (obviously innate) ability to face adversity head on and with a smile on your face. Your strength gave me strength, and look at you now! You are strong, healthy, smart, almost walking, and amazing us every day.

Your first year has been a wild one, and I wish I could tell you it is “all downhill from here.” But, no matter the struggles you face, I will always be there to support you and help you be your very best. I promise to nurture your dreams, and love you unconditionally. I can’t promise to be a perfect mom, but know that I will always do my very best to give you what you need to grow up into the happy, resilient, and successful man that I know you are going to be. 

You came into my world on Christmas Eve, but from now on December 24^th is my Jacob’s birthday above all else. I promise to make this day as special for you every year as it is to me – the day I met my baby boy, the day I first held you close, the day I fell in love all over again.

All my love, always.

Mommy

A little "year in review" picture project I made for his birthday party. 

1096 Days

December 8, 2009

December 8, 2012

One thousand ninety-six days ago, my darling baby girl Jennie Anne was born. I can't believe she is three years old today! The time has FLOWN by; she is so "grown up" now that it is difficult to remember her as a helpless little newborn that would sleep in my arms.

Although the time seems to have gone by so fast, it is also difficult for me to remember what my life was like before she arrived. Apparently, I used to go to bed after 9 pm and I went to places called bars on weekends to hang out with friends. All of this of course I have gathered via Facebook evidence and pictures from those long ago times. It seems that I used to have hobbies like camping, hiking, and skiing. too.

Now, don't get me wrong - I wouldn't trade my days with Jennie (and all her imaginary friends) for anything. She makes me laugh with her goofy ways and silly faces. Jennie is creative and has endless energy for playing pretend. She loves art projects; it is such a joy to see her face light up every time I ask her if she wants to make a craft. Her attention to detail and her focus when working on her projects is amazing to see! Jennie sings and dances to any music I put on for her (although Christmas music is her favorite right now). She will let me read her books all day - she never tires of them. I hope she never grows out of wanting me to read to her... I know she will one day, but I hope it's a long ways away. Jennie has a seemingly endless thirst for information about animals and nature. She asked to check out a "leaf book" at the library this week so she can figure out what kind of tree each leaf she finds comes from. So, we got a field guide and she looks up all the leaves she gathers outside. The things she knows (and wants to know) astound me every day. I hope she never loses her love of learning!

So, I might be sleep deprived and probably have permanently lost the ability to sleep past 6 am... I might not get much adult conversation anymore unless I am talking to the grocery store clerk... I don't have any time for hobbies these days.... I do not get to spend much time with my friends.... I definitely don't get a lot of alone time with Justin.... BUT, in the whirl-wind of the last three years, I can absolutely say two things: it has gone by way too fast, and I have never been happier. Jennie Anne has made the last three years the best of my life.

The Birthday Girl!