Happy Birthday, Maggie!

Wow. One year ago today, at 9:42 AM, Maggie Allyson Gibbs entered the world. Before she was born, I always heard people say that life changes with a baby. Duh, that seemed pretty obvious. But I didn't really know how TRUE it is. I mean things really changed!

There have been times in the past year when I've wondered about this whole parenthood thing. There was mastitis, the first 2-3 months of fussiness that would never end, the sleepless nights, the teething, and everything else that goes along with a baby. It was (is) HARD sometimes.

But I know I speak for Steve when I say that we are blessed (and I don't use that term lightly) beyond belief with Maggie. A year ago, she was this precious, tiny, helpless thing with little hands and feet and beautiful dark hair. It has been amazing to see her grow into an inquisitive, take-charge sweetheart with an incredible sense of humor, who says "hi" to everyone she meets (that's her daddy)! She loves books and flowers, loves to give kisses and hugs and is always ready to point out when she sees a doggy or kitty. She is such a joy, and it is so fun to look at the world through her eyes. Her smiles and giggles are absolutely priceless.

So today has been a day of reflection for me, thinking back over this past year with all its ups and downs. What a year. And I look forward to what this next year will bring for Maggie and for us.

Happy Birthday, Maggie! Mommy and Daddy love you soooo much!

Backwards and Forward

Maggie's new thing this week is walking backwards. It's really more like shuffling backwards. As with everything new, she gets a huge grin on her face as she moves. I've been trying to get a video of her doing it, but the minute I turn the video camera on she's more interested in that.

In other news, it was strange to start the school year and not be at school. This is the first school year since I was 5 that I haven't gone back to school in some aspect. The first week of the school year this year had me picturing what I'd be doing if I was working. 7:40 - School would be starting. Students would be in their desks working on bell work. Noon - ok, we'd be in the middle of 3rd block. 2:15 - Students would be getting antsy as the school day is about to end. The first week we'd be covering the scientific method and measurements in Physical Science, intro biology and biochemistry in Biology, and classification in Small Animal Science.

I definitely miss teaching, but I know I made the right decision for myself and for Maggie. As we're coming up to her 1st birthday I'm amazed at how quickly the time has gone but also all the incredible changes and milestones that have taken place this year. I'm looking forward to all the new things we have yet to experience!

Shower for Maggie

This morning I had to take a shower as I was a mess, and the treadmill repair guy was going to be here soon. I closed the bathroom door so that Maggie could play with some toys in the bathroom while I quickly showered. Soon after I stepped into the shower, I see Maggie's curly little head peeking in. Not long after that, she stepped all the way into the shower and proceeded to play on the shower floor while getting doused with water. Did I mention she was fully clothed? She stayed there, playing contentedly until I finished.

Babyhood

Twinkling blue eyes full of personality. Auburn hair in wild disarray. Sweet heart-shaped face without a hint of a fine line. Little upturned nose. Rosebud lips. Round tummy. Perfectly chubby thighs complete with rolls. Bare feet pattering across the floor. This is my darling baby.

Diaper or No Diaper?

I often let Maggie run around in just her diaper after breakfast before I find her clothes for the day. Today I was around the corner and I heard the riiip riiiiip of velcro. And soon Maggie waddles around the corner minus her cloth diaper. She was smiling so big with her new freedom. It was especially cute with her crazy bed head. I love that girl. :)

Nine Month Photo Session

All right, I know this is late but Maggie had some photos taken at the end of June that are so cute! My friend, Amber, did a great job. (Shout out to Lemon Peel Photography!) I just have to share some.

Vacation

We recently got back from vacation in northern Minnesota. The small resort been a tradition with my dad's side of the family since 1968 (and I'm not sure much has changed since then!). :) The week was filled with waterskiing (my first in 2 years since I was pregnant last summer), swimming, a bit of fishing, feeding chipmunks and ducks, running, visiting with extended family, and a more confident and adept walking Maggie.

Maggie had a great time, and I'm sure she'll have even more fun next year. I'll get some pictures up ASAP!