Life: firsts, lasts and the in between

As I sit giddy about the phone call I just got (Alisha's checking into the hospital) I can't help but reflect on my own birthing experience. It's all such a blur. I mean I remember each little part, but it all felt surreal. You anticipate that moment for so long and when it comes, it just flashes so quickly. It's like this super-intense day and then BOOM, you're a mommy and your life is forever changed. It's all so beautiful, and I'm so excited for Kurt and Alisha to experience it. Makes me a little teary... I truly believe that there is no greater earthly gift than that of parenthood.

Lately, I've had plenty of moments while I'm talking to Aubrey or watching her, that I just can't help but wonder when my baby grew up. That first year is full of so many firsts. Each one is documented with such excitement and dedication. Recently though, I've been reflecting on the lasts. They seem to get lost in the rush of life around me. The don't usually get documented eventhough each is equally as much of a milestone as all the firsts. When was the last time that Aubrey woke up in the middle of the night to nurse, or for that matter, the last time she nursed? When was the last time she fell asleep in my arms as I rocked her? When was the last time that she slept in her crib or rode in a baby seat? Most of these moments got lost in the rush of life and growing up, and just lately, I've been really sad that I can't pinpoint an exact moment for each last. And while some lasts are more celebrated and therefore memorable than others (the last day we used a paci, etc), sometimes I wish I could bottle up each of those precious moments that pass too quickly. (I'm baby hungry, I tell you). And since I'll probably be all gooey and baby obsessed for the next couple of days, I thought I'd take a moment to document Aubrey's latest and greatest, so I don't forget.

At 2 years 7 months (seriously, when did she grow up):

• You think nicknames are the best ever. You laugh when grandma calls Ivy "monkeyface" and just recently you started calling daddy "Daddy O". You also like your nickname "Auburrito".
• You LOVE to make mommy and daddy proud. In swim lessons, you go underwater or kick and then stare at the window with a big smile to make sure we're watching.
• You're not a fan of big crowds. You don't really like people you don't know.
• You love your Bubba! When you really like something, you always talk about how Bubba is going to do it with you.
• You've replaced pacis with gum because big girls chew gum. You know that you can't swallow it, so you have me put a wet wipe on the table so you can spit each little piece on it.
• Your memory astounds me. You'll bring up events from almost a year ago.
• Your favorite children's Bible stories are Baby Moses and Joseph's New Coat.
• Your favorite color is blue...you want blue everything!
• You love daddy to paint your nails.
• You have two distinct dances that you do: the crazy Hot Dog Dance and your Princess Dance.
• You love to sing and dance. Your nighttime request from daddy is Twinkle, Twinkle and from mommy is Silent Night.
• You bow your head and fold your hands when you pray, but you always are peeking with one eye. I caught you in the playroom praying on your princess couch. You were thanking G0d for your family (SO CUTE).
• You're an awesome scooter rider! You go all the way to the mailbox and back.
• You peddled your bike at grandma's house 25 times by yourself.
• You're still a mama's girl most days. (I love it!)

Oh, and a little update on our big girl status: We LOVE swim lessons now. Last week Aubrey told us that Miss Caitlyn is her best friend. The first day was rough on everyone, but I was totally wrong about Miss Caitlyn. She's cute, fun and enthsiastic. I just think she was overwhelmed by 3 SCREAMING 2 year olds. As far as the paci goes, it's been a week and a day. Each day is different. Most days she fusses or sings for about 3 minutes before she falls asleep. Today was bad. She literally cried for 1 1/2 hours before nap time and it took her about 1 1/2 hours to fall asleep tonight (not all crying, we even caught her crawling down the hall- the first time she's EVER gotten out of her bed). This too shall pass.

I'm so excited to meet Kurt and Alisha's little bundle of joy! New life. Such a beautiful celebration, especially in this Easter season. CAN'T WAIT, but I must go to bed.