Bye 2013, Hello 2014!

Hope. Wonder. Excitement. 

As 2013 has passed, I reflect on a few things I have learned....

Patience. Lots of patience from learning to be a mom to Jackson that has bettered many other areas of life.

Multi-tasking. From January when Jackson still wasn't crawling to December of a busy, inquisitive toddler. Trying to do all the necessary family and home tasks has taught me to be creative, quick, and flexible to get everything done, often at the same time. 

Appreciation. For our family and all their support. For my father for not just watching Jackson during the work week but for his creativity, willingness to explore, and incredible patience. For the little things in a busy working mom day; being able to tuck Jackson into bed, hear him yell "Hi Daddy" when Matt comes home, and feel him wrap his arms around my legs in a big hug.

A few little moments that stand out in big ways...

Walking into Jackson's room singing happy birthday on the morning of his first birthday. The year had flown, now he is no longer a baby. He looked at me with a sweet smile.

A little over a month past Jackson's first birthday we were at the park and he was trying to walk from one little circle step to the next. He got brave and LET GO taking 2-3 steps on his own to the next one. He lit up when he arrived, clapping for himself and smiling. Me, I cheered as if he just made a game winning shot.

Over the summer my mom and I took Jackson to a park district beach/pool. Jackson spent quite a while taking his sand pale to a water spout, trying to fill it up and then carry it back to us in the sand. As he unsteadily walked, the water would splash out till it was empty. Jackson would notice, and turn right around to try again. He was so determined, focused and absolutely adorably hilarious!

On my 30th birthday, we were sitting in the kitchen floor talking. All of a sudden Jackson crawled up on my lap, started climbing up to my face, and with his big bold blue eyes staring directly into mine said "mommy."

This list could go on and on...

To do better in 2014...

Take photos with the DSLR camera, spontaneous moments with the iPhone. Jackson sees my phone ("mama's phone") and immediately brings it to me with concern that I need it in my hands. In 2014 I aim to take more mental snapshots more and worry about the phone less. 

Picture organization. Since April 6, 2012 my picture storage on the camera, my phone and on the computer have exploded. Ive been working to organize them better, but going forward I will organize as I take them. 

Recognize more of the precious little moments in everyday life. Being a mom is an amazing experience. It is also a busy, worry-filled, stressed out experience. I want to be sure to recognize and enjoy all the wonderful moments and not be so wrapped up in the negative.

2014 is entering with so much love and promise. Three weddings I'm blessed to be a part of. Big boy transitions for our soon to be two year old. Growing families. Cherished time with those that mean the most. 

Thank you 2013 for a blessed year. We can not wait for all that 2014 has in store!

Our blurry New Years picture that I am still obsessed with!