Things to remember

It's been a crazy yet amazing 14 months and I wish it hadn't taken me this long to finally write to you...but... You've kept us a bit busy. You are growing up so fast and any day now you will be walking on your own. It's a bitter-sweet milestone in my eyes. When your brother was learning to walk someone told me that as soon as he started walking on his own that the time would really start to fly by, and that he would go from being my baby (who needs me for everything) to an independent toddler, learning how to do things on his own. It was true. Although I love seeing you both grow up and see your personalities emerge, I will always think fondly (and miss) the short time I had to hold you in my arms and rock you to sleep.

While I still have you as my baby I want to pass on some feelings and advice (before I forget them).

1. You, my dear Claire, are the epitome of the beauty in the human spirit. Your strong will and love of life has pushed you through times and trials that many wouldn't have made it through. You are a constant reminder of what it means to be resilient  and I will forever look up to you for that.

2.  You are stubborn. I've known that from the beginning.  This can be a great asset, but don't let it be a roadblock in your life. Trust others.

3. Your father and I have fought hard for you since before day1. We always will. If you allow us, we will be your biggest fans and constant supporters. No matter what.

4. You will make mistakes. We all do. But in this department, less is more so learn from them and even if it seems like a huge, unforgivable mistake- refer back to #3.

5. I hope you learn to see, feel, and experience the beauty in real food. Prepared with love. For you.

6. Go with your gut, it's rarely wrong.

7. Never judge people. Period. You never know what's going on in their lives or what they've been through.

8. Becoming a mother changed me. Becoming your mother changed me even more. I truly hope that one day you get to experience the indescribable love you feel for your child. And when you become a mom and think, "wow, my mom did all this for me?"... Well... Your welcome.

9. There is nothing quite like getting you hands dirty and digging in the soil. Regardless of what field you choose and how technological the world get, always make time for getting back to nature.

10. Keep an open mind.  Despite what our society portrays, we don't know everything. There are forces greater than us and what you believe is up to you, but respect the beliefs of others, whatever they may be.

11. People will always remember how you made them feel. Never forget that.

12. Don't be afraid to fail.

13. Rules are meant to be broken. Except mine- don't eff with mine.

14. Spread the love. The kindness, compassion, and expertise of countless people have gotten all of us to where we are today. Make a difference to other people. You may never see the impact you have on them, but they will.

And above all, know that 'the greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love, and be loved in return'
      (Bonus if you can name the movie)

Birthdays and anniversaries

Once again the busyness doesn't end. We celebrated Owen's 3rd birthday in March, Claire's 1st birthday in April, and mine in May. June 9th marked the year anniversary of bringing Claire home from the NICU and June 12th was Jake and my 9th anniversary. Phew.

Now to enjoy the summer.