Nathaniel's First Birthday + Kids Update
I can't believe my baby is ONE!
I found myself scrolling through photos and watching videos of Nathaniel every day this week. Most of the time I was crying. But, the other times I was just sitting there almost shocked that this is my life. Yes, our family has issues and we don't have much, but to look back on what God has done and to see these boys every day is a miracle.
Nate had an eventful first year of life. He went to Great Wolf Lodge twice, Estes Park, drove to Disneyland, and San Francisco. Then went on an airplane to LA and Milwaukee. We had a lot of wonderful times and a lot of hard times, but looking back we really enjoyed his first year.
Nathaniel continues to remind us of Wesley and is so close to walking! He loves all food, his milk, and loves to do absolutely everything his brothers do. Staying in the nursery was a hit or miss all year and we were always so grateful when each kid did well. Nate is the worst traveler, loves his crib, and still naps at the same time as his brothers in the afternoon. (All the praise hands!)
I would say Nate's first 6 months were quite easy. He slept good, was the biggest snuggle bug, pretty adaptable to change, nursed like a champ, and as long as he was with me he was great. After the 6 month mark, he became super fussy, irritable, was sick on-and-off with some fevers and head colds, extremely attached with major separation anxiety, had a really hard time sleeping, and we just had a difficult time figuring out what his deal was. I think now that he's ONE I'm seeing some positive changes. Thank the Lord.
I'm thankful I made it here.
I feel like it's always a celebration of God getting you through the ups and downs of another child's first year. And I do NOT have easy babies. I think Reid was the most easy as far as a schedule and eating went, but Wes and Nate gave me a run for my money (and still do) in their own ways.
Nate, we love your smile, your constant "talking,"and the way you growl and roar when you're playing with dinosaurs. I love the way you love your mama and the way you always want to be with your brothers. We love your clapping and all the kisses you give. I love the way you use your index finger for everything: touching, eating, figuring out what a toy is, etc. All those teeth are adorable and I love how you wanted to nurse for 12 months. I love how you take risks and want to climb everything. Even though it makes me almost have a heart attack every time, I know you are all-boy and love figuring out the world. I'm so thankful for you. My 3rd boy. My baby. I love you.
Wes and Reid are doing well too. This last year was really hard for our family but, looking back now, I'm thankful for the pain that brought us even closer. I am so tight with my boys and I think that's what happens when hard things come.
I'm shocked with how amazing they adapted to having a new brother.
They absolutely adore him. I'm talking giving toys, asking how he slept, 50 forehead kisses a day, and wanting to hold him. Even distracting when he cries kind of love. I couldn't ask for more loving siblings for Nate. I feel very fortunate because I know not every kid graciously welcomes a new sibling!
Wes finished his first year of preschool and started his 2nd year at a new school. Of course, he's thriving, writing his name, helping his friends zip their jackets up, and always excited to learn something new. (All coming from his teacher :) ) He's very in-tune with our family, very close with both me and Andrew, very helpful around the house, and still a bundle of energy :) He fills the room with joy and excitement...and noise :)
Reid had some separation anxiety hit for the first time after Andrew was gone a lot for a couple of months. And it didn't help that I had to leave a couple times, too. It was a hard year and Reid felt it. Wesley is pretty resilient and it definitely still hit him, but Reid felt it deeper. Sometimes, I think he's 4 like Wesley because they're so inseparable.
But, really, he's just a little 2 1/2 year old that needs his mama.
On a brighter note, he's potty trained, being taught by Wesley everything he's learning at school, and loves to sing all the songs from church. He enjoys his alone time with me when Nate is sleeping and Wesley's at preschool. We paint, bake, do laundry and dishes, read, and he loves helping with it all.
I am extremely blessed by this life because of my boys. I know it's easy to jump on the bandwagon of "if only I had.....then my life would be so much better." But, I challenge you to write out all the blessings in your life. You'll see that all that other "stuff" truly doesn't matter. My hands are full but my heart is fuller.
For another adorable first birthday and cake smash, head to my friend's blog post! I met this wonderful friend through Instagram and her daughter Kylie is darling!