The Year of the Parent

Last year (2012) was definitely the year of the baby.  We were figuring out how to function with a new little person in our house.  This year, however, the "function" part was old news... suddenly what took precedence was the parenting aspect of the arrangement.  What would she eat, when would she go to bed, what activities were free expression and what would lead to a firm "no"?  Just how much whining could we ignore before we went absolutely batty?  I can definitely say that we made it out of this year alive... but the battle is not over yet. lol

Amongst all of the questions about our growing parenting styles, we also had so so SO much enjoyment watching Emily grow, learn, express and explore.  From walking to kicking to running to dancing to jumping to climbing... she's all over the place.  From crying to showing to words that we can understanding... she's communicating.  She's getting herself "dressed" (socks, shoes and hats) and, with that, comes her own sense of style.  She has a favorite TV show, a favorite blanket, favorite books.  She FINALLY likes to cuddle and will give hugs and kisses unprompted.  How much love I feel for my small little person is unreal.

2013 has been a good year.  And I am very excited to see what 2014 has to bring!