Baby's First Year

Eloise's first year ended several months ago, but I still tear up when I start thinking about how it's gone.  What is it about that first year in the life of a new human?  It's so exhausting, so overwhelming, such an adjustment.  As a nursing mother, I feel so tethered and oftentimes a slave to schedules.  But so much happens.  Personality emerges.  Milestones are checked off (figuratively, of course... if you think this blog is in bad shape, you should see poor Eloise's baby book).  Teeth pop in all over the place.  So much learning and growing and becoming occurs.  I hardly remember our family without Eloise.  One year seems so short and also like forever.  She is my little pal and we spent so  much time together during her first twelve months of life... more than we ever will again.  I treasure the sleepless hazy memories and although I know that what's ahead is even more fun in so many ways, I am still mourning the loss of babyhood.  I truly love the first year and now it's over.  Thanks for all the snuggles, Eloise.  You're the most perfect baby and I love you.

Eleven Month Eloise

The problem with not recording life as it happens is that it seems you almost instantly forget it.  It's been nearly six months since I took these "Eleven Month Photos" and I've already forgotten what eleven month Eloise was like.  She didn't walk til 14 months, but I'm sure she was already standing and cruising.  Probably already babbling too.... and that certainly hasn't stopped.  One thing is for sure.  She was happy happy happy and full of tons of personality.  She is our joy.

(When) Eloise (Was) Ten Months

Spoiler Alert:  She's always been and always will be unbelievably adorable.  I took these clown dress photos in March for her (circus themed) birthday invitation.