Hanging with the Hamiltons: January 2012

I have never more in my life wanted to slow down time. These last 12 months have flown by. I have watched our 7 pound 2 ounce baby girl transition into a walking talking toddler with a distinct personality. How did that happen? And did I appreciate every minute I could? Probably not, that is just how it goes- but I do know the last 12 months have been the most meaningful and special 12 months of our lives.

You hear it said by almost every parent -"I could never imagine my life without my children in it. In fact, I cant remember my life before." I now know what they mean and I say the same thing every day. Adrian has changed us forever as individuals and as a couple. She challenges us every minute to be the best person, mom or dad we can be. She makes us be creative with our story times and silly dances and songs. She forces us to work even more as a team and collaborate as one unit. She has made me more organized, realistic and flexible and has made us appreciate the small things like bear hugs, impromptu giggles and splashes in the bath tub.

She has grown into such a strong personailty who tells you what she wants even if its by grunting. She is not afraid to speak her mind, give kisses, wave goodbye, play with the dogs and be my cuddlebug at the same time. You can already tell that she is going to be confident and independent which I am excited about it because we think she gets that naturally from both sides- but I just want to ensure that she always knows she can come back and cuddle with us and know that we will always be there for her.

This year God has blessed us with more love, strength and patience than I ever thought was possible or that we ever deserved but I cant say thank you enough for all He has given us. I just pray that we can keep living the way we should and teaching Adrian by example. The next 12 months are going to be even more exciting and fun as Adrian begins to run, talk and develop more into a little girl and no longer my baby and we cannot wait to experience it all! I am just so thankful for my wonderful husband, our great family and friends and for the best daughter in the world! Happy Birthday Adrian Joy!