Paxton is 1!

I can't believe my baby boy is 1 today! I feel like this past year went by so fast but yet it feels like I first held him in my arms forever ago. It was a year ago that I faced one of my fears. Giving birth. I was so nervous after hearing many stories from different people. I didn't expect everything to go so perfectly.  And now I'm nervous for the next time (not pregnant) that it won't go the same. But yet I can't wait to deliver again.

That moment I became a mom was the best moment ever. Although, seeing Jason hold him for the first time was even better.

Almost to the minute I had him a year ago. 

He is my perfect little buddy. Every stage has been so fun and I love the stage he is in right now.  He is the most loving sweet boy, although I wish he was a little more cuddly. He is always on the move except for when we read. He loves reading books with mom and dad.
He started actually walking 2 weeks ago and it is so fun! He loves exploring.
He said "mom" last night for the first time. He was taking a bath. He said "dada" months ago
He loves chicken nuggets, yogurt, fruit/oatmeal, string cheese, water, chocolate and donut holes from grandma.
He is learning how to put things back where he got them. If he takes a peach off his spoon he tries to put it back. Or he takes a book off his shelf and tries to put it back. He's completely adorable.
Most strangers get the "stink eye." I promise he is the sweetest boy.
There isn't a place I go that someone doesn't comment on his cuteness. And I can't help but love it.
Everyone is always surprised how old he is because he's so small. Especially now that he is walking. He looks like a 6 month old is walking around. I love when he holds my hand when walking sometimes.
He loves his little tikes car and crawls over the side where there isn't a door.
He loves black beans, especially Cafe Rio's.

 

This past year has been fun, at some points mundane, challenging and rewarding.  The best year ever. I have grown more than I ever thought possible.  It has been really hard having Jason gone till midnight almost every night. I came to cherish the time I had with him and the time Paxton had with him.  Many, many days Jason leaves before Pax wakes up, sees him at lunch sometimes, at dinner for 1/2 hour and then comes home after Pax goes to bed. I know Jason is tired and worn out. He wants be be home with us in the evenings.  He is so ready to be done with the house, but never, never, does he complain. He is my hero. And I feel horrible sometimes thinking how hard he works and I'm at home, and can't help with the house. But, I know what I do with Paxton is so important.  I love what I do. It's so easy to feel inadequate with Pinterest and seeing friends with their blogs and beautiful photography and that have businesses and they are making money for their family.  Sometimes I have to take a step back and say, "I'm happy." I have my family. And you know what, that is enough for me right now. Someday I may find my niche in this crafty/creative world. But, right now. This is me. I am Jason's wife and Paxton's mom.