Tristan's Story

I've been thinking a lot lately, how becoming a mommy has made me a different person, a better person. My sweet baby boy turned 15 months old today. And not a day goes by that he doesn't absolutely amaze me. He already has so much more personality than I will ever have -- he has an amazing sense of humor and can make all the girls smile. He dances like a professional and has this crazy, infectious laugh that will brighten your whole day. He's learning so much these days... he can point to all of his most obvious body parts and calls all of his favorite people by name. He has 9 teeth, and a full head of gorgeous (but thin) curly hair. He loves to cuddle with his "doggy", Gunner. His favorite toys are his Little People farm animals and any book that he can get his hands on. I know that these are the days I need to hold near to my heart, that I need to remember forever. His sweet baby hugs that can make you cry, and his slobbery kisses that make you laugh.

I've been reading this blog: http://www.remembermaddie.com - and it has made me realize, again, just how incredibly blessed I am. I have a happy, healthy, smart, sweet baby boy and I take him for granted all too often. I know that my busy schedule is necessary - I'm trying to give him a better life. But I just hope that I don't forget to live this one, in the meantime.

I know that being a mother can happen to anyone. But being a *mommy* is special. And it changes your life.

I'm trying desperately to get in the habit of posting regularly, but Tristan is 6 1/2 months old today and it just hasn't happened yet.

The baby is cranky and grumpy most of the time now. He's teething, and miserable, and so are the rest of us. But he's started cuddling and saying words and he's so sweet that it's pretty hard to hold it against him.

He crawls now, in his own special way... he would much rather use his feet than his knees and if he could just work out that balance thing, he would be walking instead. He can pull up, too, but the same principles apply.

He's eating solid foods... he has oatmeal with fruit every morning for breakfast (his favorites are bananas and peaches) and then a veggie for dinner (likes: green beans and sweet potatoes, hates: peas). I've snuck him a taste of a few table foods, but nothing too serious.

We're still waiting on news of his daycare arrangements for the fall. I'm really looking forward to finishing my degree, but I know that after the first hour or so, I'll be missing my little boy.