If you haven't checked out Young House Love, you are missing out! They write about adventures in cheap home improvement, DIY successes, and family - and are super, super cute and hilarious. Anyway, my two fave bloggers (John and Sherry of YHL) also write regularly for BabyCenter (check out their blog here) and totally inspired me to write this blog entry. Now I don't want to blatantly rip them off, but since we're still in the realm of Thanksgiving, it's time I pay homage to my little girl's first Thanksgiving and why I'm so happy she's around.
1) She makes me laugh - ALL THE TIME.
I'll admit, it's pretty easy to make me laugh. I love to giggle and be silly. But Baby C turns it up to 11 ( This is Spinal Tap? Anyone?). The expressions she makes, her daily discoveries and her goofy nature is just funny. Plus, she laughs back. So it's just one big laughing cycle. That probably sounds annoying to most people, but it really is the funniest thing ever.
2) I am more active.
Even though Baby C has only been around for 8 1/2 short months, she has completely changed my life. Okay, I know every parent says that, but it's true. First off, she really makes me want to be a healthier person all the way around. I'm not going to lie - sometimes, I would like nothing more than to eat a Reese's Pieces Blizzard on my couch and keep up with those Kardashians. (Oh right, like that doesn't sound good to you). But I'm aware that everything I do influences Baby C. We go on daily walks, and we try to have an "excursion" every day, whether that's to a class, a friend's house, the park...That, plus that whole pregnancy weight gain thing. I needed to nip that in the bud.
3) I am healthier.
As I started making Claire's food, I noticed I took great care in selecting and preparing her meals. I made sure things were as balanced as they could be, made sure she ate lots of green vegetables, and I tried to go organic whenever I could. And then I would reach for chips and salsa for myself. Something wasn't right with that picture. Now, I do my best to have lots of fresh fruits and veggies on hand for snacks. I'm also trying to be better about my long-term health. I see my doctor more often and ask more questions. I need to be around for the long haul with Baby C. And I nag my husband to do the same. Sidebar: why don't men like to go to the doctor?
4) I'm more invested in my community.
Having a baby makes you lay down your roots, whether you want to or not. You get to know your neighbors. And you may even stalk neighbors you notice with strollers on their porch. Not that I do that or anything. The thing is your community is now your child's community, and you want to know EVERYONE and what their story is. You want to know the good parks, the restaurants that have clean bathrooms, the teacher that will challenge his students, places to avoid. Not only that, but you also want to take care of your community. You making your community a better place means that it's a better place for everyone, including your family.
5) I have never loved something so much.
Baby C is seriously my world. And loving something so much is scary. But I throw caution to the wind and love her more each and every day. And that's all I can say about that before I turn into a puddle.
6) Watching her learn and discover is just as fun for me.
Seriously, I think I get just as excited when Claire discovers a new skill. I don't know who clapped more when she learned how to clap! I'm so excited to experience childhood all over again and help Baby C make memories that last a lifetime. How lucky am I?
7) She makes me a better human being.
I hate bike riding. Really, it's one of my least favorite things to do. But when Claire's ready to learn, I'm going to take her. I'm going to step out of my comfort zone because it's the best thing to do for my daughter. I'm also trying to live more honestly, more lovingly and with more integrity because kids need to learn that from their parents. A girl like Claire deserves the best of me.
And that's just a few reasons of why I'm thankful for my little girl. Sappy, but true.
Oh Melissa! Claire is such a doll. I love reading your posts and seeing her grow. Thanks for sharing!
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