It has been eighteen months now since I gave birth to my sweet baby girl.  Our brown haired, blue eyed tall and skinny baby with an infectious personality.  Each day is an adventure, each one more unique than the last.  I have said it on repeat since January 25, 2014... it is a blessing to be this girls mama.

At eighteen months, Grace is...
22 pounds (18th percentile!!! OUT of the single digits!).
31 and 3/4 inches tall (54th percentile).
wearing a size 4 diaper.
wearing 12 month and some 18 month clothing.
wearing a size 4 or 5 in shoes.
sporting almost all of her teeth.
saying "mama", "daddy", "dawg", "hi".
babbling away the rest of the time in completely coherent baby conversation.
running.
dancing and singing to music of all kinds.
nursing in the morning, before naptime (most days) and before bed.
loving macaroni and cheese, grapes, cheesesticks.
pointing.
not afraid of strangers.
obsessed with Piston and any and all other dogs.
getting her own food at restaurants.
craves routine like her mama.
loves being outside.
brushing her own teeth.

hates her carseat, getting her diaper changed, being told no, not being able to get a certain toy out of the toy box and most vegetables.

Mommy loves...
how much of a little mama you are to your baby dolls and other babies.
your over the top smiles and grins.
hearing you sing along to the National Anthem.
when you crawl in my lap and snuggle.
hugs where you wrap your arms around my neck and squeeze.
holding your hand while you lead me places.
how you tuck a purse into your elbow and carry it everywhere.
the excitement you have for life.

Being a mother is still one of the most challenging gigs I've ever had.  My anxiety levels can shoot to insane heights over the smallest change... but I am reassured every day that I am doing okay when I am greeted in the morning with a smile and some cuddles.  Knowing this little person is someone that I grew and get to raise is still something awe inspiring.  I wouldn't trade the hardest day being a mom for the world.

Maybe time could slow down just a little though?


always,
amanda