I Have a Threenager

Three years ago today I paced the halls of Swedish Hospital anxiously awaiting a little girl that I knew would rock my world (ok: I waddled the halls keeling over as each painful wave of contractions hit). No matter the amount of books read, websites perused or classes attended – I could not have been prepared for what this incredible vibrant little person would do to my heart. How she would shape my world, expand my mind and change EVERYTHING.

Cora Marie at 7 pounds 4 ounces came into this world wide eyed and silent …… happy, healthy and hungry, yet as content and peaceful as could be. She wrapped her perfect wrinkly fingers around mine, looked into my eyes right through to my soul, and latched onto my breast, where she stayed for nearly an hour. Focused on satisfying a need and listening to her Mothers heartbeat, while forming a bond that could never ever be broken. To date – THIS is my favorite, most memorable and accomplished moment in my life.

Three years later she is still wide eyed, happy, healthy and yes - hungry. Silent? NO :-) While I still satisfy her needs, those needs have changed dramatically as she learns to pursue, provide and consider all in life for herself. The bond remains tighter than ever and I know always will, as she satisfies my needs in return. She still looks through my eyes into my soul, while clutching my hand for comfort. The days are chaotic and filled with her laughter, tantrums, silliness and sass, that come through one liners, a smarty pants attitude and brilliant observations of the world around her.

Yes, I definitely have a threenager. She is busier, sassier and stronger willed than most while constantly keeping me on my toes. She wears my patience, test my limits, and takes until I have no more to give…..although I always do. During these days (that I’m aware will soon pass) we navigate a life together as Mother and Daughter, building a new home. We continue to learn from each other, love on each other, and drive each other crazy :-) Throughout it all I see her heart …….. her huge, compassionate, warm heart, in the little body that she will soon outgrow. I feel blessed. I feel satisfied, and yes – my world is rocked.

Happy birthday my sweet girl.

 

33 WILL Kick Ass

I think I am 32. Yet I may be 33.

Yes, this seriously happens once you turn thirty .... and I'm not quite sure if this is due to actually getting older (onsetting memory loss), or due to the craziness of life that often increases in your thirties: a demanding career, busy little kids and a lot of wine (just to survive it all). None the less, it happens.  It took me a few yet I've determined (ok my Mother did) that I'm 33 this year and with that I'm determined that 33 will kick ass. It must. Actually to make up for 32, I think I need at least the next 3 years to kick ass.

So far so good as this one starts with quality peeps surrounding me. 33 has already brought incredible experiences that include new beautiful sights, unforgettable moments and great convos over time well spent with family, friends and a new man that's come into my life.

Along with a wonderful fem family celebration, I was pleasantly suprised with a road trip through the picturesque Cascade loop. I have to say this trip is a must for Northwesterners'. For all. It opened my eyes to so much overlooked beauty right here in our backyard that I needed a reminder of. That along with perfect company made the experience the best birthday gift I could have asked for. Leavenworth to Winthrop to Lake Diablo to Coupeville.....I sat back, took it all in, and enjoyed the ride. Cheers to kicking ass.