My Little Dex is Turning One. Where Did The Time Go?

Seriously.  I can't even fathom how fast this year has blown by.  But, if I sit back and really think about it, we've managed to fit in about as much as humanly possible in one year since my beautiful baby boy was born.

Let's start with April 27, when my precious Declan Thomas Whelan arrived.  It was a little complicated (with his hands coming out first, but our "Superman," as the doctors called him made it and was healthy, albeit, with a few bumps, bruises and one bad case of cone-head.   Then, let's throw in a bad case of postpartum craziness, a medical scare and major surgery for Anna, a new house (including a 6-month bidding war), a move to a new town/suburb, a new job for Billy (he's now at Apple) and new schools for Anna - etc, etc, etc.  I'm getting exhausted just writing this.

But (there's always a but), this year has brought us unimaginable joy.  Bill and I have been blessed a second time as we've been able to have another child and witness the everyday miracles that come with watching him grow, develop and thrive.  The pure wonder and amazement certainly does not diminish after having one child.  I think it makes a parent more in tune with what is actually happening with your little baby.  Your second-time-parent experience allows you to understand the full gravity of what is taking place before your eyes - you're child, that you made together, that grew in your belly (I still can't believe it only takes 9 months), was born and is healthy - is becoming a real, one-of-a-kind person.

As I reflect on the year since Dex was welcomed into our world, all the other day-to-day chatter seems to melt away and all I can see and think of is how much he is loved.

Declan Thomas - I've loved you from the moment we met.  I love you and every last spirally curl beyond words.  I prayed for you, cried for you and dreamed of having you.  I love that you're curious, active, a little distructive and always on the move.  I love that when you're mad - you are MAD.  But your smile is larger than life and your laugh is addicting.  You melt my heart every day as I watch you learn how to navigate your new world.  I love, love, love you, my sweet, precious boy.

I'm dedicated this song to you, Dex:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=r4-PDKNu71I

Easter Bunny did arrive

Happy Easter 2013.  My baby Dex experienced his first easter and my Anna was amazed Easter morning as always.  It was a beautiful weekend all around, spending it with both sides of our family. 

Billy's 35th Birthday Party

Love my Billy, so I had to throw him a fabulous birthday party/ housewarming bash (since we just moved).  We had a blast with all of our friends who came from all ovee the country.   Our first party in the new place!

I've also included some pictures of us at other evenings out.  We've certainly not slowed down since moving to the burbs.  We still have so much fun with eachother.

Bathtime with my babies

I'm posting this randomly because, as a parent, the best times are usually not holidays, milestones, vacations, etc.  The best times with your kids are on a random Tuesday night after a day of working, when we're all together in the bathtub being silly, loud and just plain happy.  Those are the best times and there may not be a camera or video present.  You just pray that the moment is engrained in your memory forever.  This was one of those moments.

Dex is Crawling and Walking (with a little help)!

I'm about four months late on this, but Dex started crawling December 19.  We knew he's be early because he's just one of those kids...he dive in!  I will also add to this by showing some pictures of our boy walking (with a little help).  People are surprised by how fast and nimble our little guy is, considering how huge and chunky he is.  He love to move and hasn't stopped doing so since that Dec. 19 evening.  He keeps us all on our toes and brings joy to our life every single day.