2011

I can safely say that 2011 has been the most AMAZING year of my life. It has brought me so much happiness, change, challenges, frustrations, and a love for my son that has made my heart feel bigger then I could’ve ever imagined. On top of that, I have found Captain Awesome to be the most spectacular partner and dad (although I already knew he would be), and our families have just reaffirmed how lucky we are to have them in our lives. When I think back on 2011 it’s hard to fully be able to reflect on all that has happened. I never believed I could watch someone grow and change so much in one year. Of course I am talking about my son, but that statement could also apply to both me and Captain Awesome. Did we finally grow up?

The word amazing can translate to so many things. As a matter of fact I am amazed every single day. I am amazed at how easily I learned to take care of my son, I am amazed at how easily Captain Awesome took to being a daddy, I am amazed at how long I continued breastfeeding, and of course I am amazed at how much my son has grown and changed over 1 year.

The Captain is the most amazing father. He comes home to see us almost every day for lunch so that he can play with his son, and he makes a point to be home right after work so that he can be with him before bed. Who would’ve thought that he would turn down some “whiskey Fridays” so he could sit and watch Wonder Pets (hmmm maybe I shouldn’t have told that one!). My husband would would mainly only grunt to me in the mornings, now chats, and plays with his son before work. What a transformation! We have been together for a VERY long time and I am always so happy to find that he never lets me down. He is still my rock, and my best friend. Now the word “partner” has a new meaning. He truly is just that.

I am truly blessed to be able to stay home with my son every day. People tell me that I should go out more, or get someone to watch him while I run errands, but I don’t want to. I always knew that I was meant to be a mom, but I always wondered if it would be everything I had dreamed. I was so happy to find that it truly was and more. I could’ve NEVER imagine how much I love being home with him every day. Part of that privilege is thanks to Captain Awesome. Of course I work, but I am happy we  both are on the same page about our goals to allow me to continue to do so. I will do whatever it takes to be able to stay home with him for years to come.

If I learned anything this year it’s to “go with my gut!” No one can teach you how to be a mother, and no one else can tell you how to raise your child. You have to do what is right for you and your family. To do so you may have to put your foot down and make others unhappy, but remembering that you child comes first is all that is important. The second major lesson was that “it’s not about me anymore”. No matter how much I want to go somewhere to do something doesn’t matter. Christian may have different plans and I just have to go with it. Schedules change, as does the weather or temperament. When that happens my plans are forced to change too. You gotta just go with it.

For a girl who hates change, that is what 2011 was all about. I have learned to embrace it, and even love it. I have a feeling there will be a lot more change in my future. 2012 is a new year and a new beginning. My favorite part is that I get to watch the world through the eyes of my son, and as he grows so will the world that he sees. I have so much I want to show him, and I plan to start right away. I’m not sure how anything can beat 2011, but we can sure try to do it in 2012.

Happy New Year!! I hope yours was fantastic!

What was your favorite part of 2011??