Looking Back at 2019

2019 was the year of Jack. Life flipped upside down in the best way possible the moment we became a family of three. So much growth, change, milestones, sleepless nights, googling, giggles and joy. Motherhood is the hardest and most rewarding thing I've ever done, and the first year was nothing short of amazing.

Greg and I bought a house in October, and we've spent the last couple months settling in. Having a blank slate to decorate is my favorite thing. It feels so good to have a home for our family to create memories, host for holidays and parties, and be in a great neighborhood for Jack to grow up.

I had another career advancement within my company - taking over the women's apparel department, in addition to accessories. I've been loving the new challenge, and designing clothes has been such a fun & creative aspect of my job. 

Looking forward to 2020 - new experiences with our little guy, making our house a home, and turning 30. Cheers to the New Year! Wishing you a safe & happy holiday!

Wild One - Jack's First Birthday Party

This past weekend, family and friends joined us to celebrate Jack's First Birthday! We threw a "Wild One" themed party based on mine and Greg's favorite children's book, "Where The Wild Things Are," complete with banners, balloons and even Max's wolf suit for Jack to wear. He hated the crown but loved the fluffy tail!

The day was filled with so much fun and laughter, and lots of food. Jack's cake smash was the highlight - this boy could not get enough! His outfit is now green tie-dye, and the high chair (which was my grandmother's) had to be hosed down post-cake! Icing was everywhere! Big thank you to everyone that came and spoiled our little boy!

Dear Jack

Jack Oliver, you are the light of my life. The past 365 days since you entered the world have brought me more joy than I ever imagined. Watching you grow and learn has been the greatest gift, and seeing your personality blossom is so fun.You are curious & goofy, so snuggling, persistent as hell and the perfect mix of me and Dada. 

I never want to forget the sound of your giggles and squeals, the pitter patter of your hands when you crawl on the wood floors, and the way you say "Mama." I never want to forget how small you were in my arms the first moment I held you, and the feeling of you sinking into me when you fall asleep on my chest. I never want to forget your slobbery open-mouth kisses and your cute wave goodbye. I never want to forget your blonde fluffy hair that sticks straight up, your chunky cheeks and thigh rolls. I never want to forget the way your face lights up when your eyes find mine across the room.

To think a entire year has gone by since meeting you for the first time evokes so many emotions. I'm  proud of your Dad and I for not only surviving the first year of parenting but for raising a sweet, strong and spirited little man. I'm sad that time is so fleeting. When we're playing and laughing so hard that you lose your balance and tip over, I try to soak in every second of it. And in the dark hours of the night when I'm rocking you back to sleep for the third time, I am reminded that this too shall pass. 

You are officially one year old and entering the toddler stage, but you will always be my baby. You are my whole world and I feel so lucky to be your Mommy.