One year with our darling Vivienne! Every day with her has been so deeply cherished. I remember so vividly being pregnant, eager to get through each doctor’s visit, each week and every month. Finally sharing the news and finally getting ready for our little girl. The past year has been a roller coaster of happiness, uncertainty, excitement, hope and growth.
We are so darn lucky to have two beautiful children. Arthur took his time getting used to having a new sibling, let alone a baby in the house. For so long it was just us four, and I didn’t realize how much a new baby would impact him. The first few days were an adjustment and he was always wondering when she would be “alive”, since all she did was sleep. After a week or so, he finally was himself again and it has been a wonderful experience to see him grow with his little sister and love her.
For the first three months, we were gifted a night nurse. The BEST gift we’ve ever received. Although I was sad that I wasn’t taking care of Vivi in the evenings that quickly faded when I realized consistent and lots of sleep would aid in my recovery. Not to mention, my husband was able to sleep, and we both were energized during the day, and could spend extra time with Arthur in the evenings. I am forever grateful for that support and help during that critical time
Vivi has truly been a calming force I never knew I needed. She brightens up any room, loves to lounge and cuddle and has blended in so well as if she was always here. Pausing my work and shifting to full Mom role has been the best decisions I’ve made, and that we’ve made as a family. Getting to experience it all and truly focus on Vivi and Arthur has been unforgettable.
The newborn and first year stage, are just that, a stepping stone to the next phase. So, we made a big effort not to buy a lot of baby stuff. Last year, I wrote this post on my must-have baby items for the first year. It’s very easy to get carried away with all the latest gear and gadgets, but remember, this stage won’t last long.
We’ve traveled with Vivi already, her first flight was at nine weeks old to Cabo, where we celebrated my Mom’s birthday. We also visited my sister’s ranch in Louisiana. Vivi has been doing school drop offs and pick-ups with me, she has experienced all of her first holidays (Christmas was so fun with her!), and she has lots of cousins to take care of her and play with. She loves long neighborhood walks, strolling the mall and grocery shopping. Vivi is my little partner, and basically, wherever I go, she goes. We took it slow this past year and don’t have any plans for that to change much as we head into this new year.
Celebrating Vivi was easy. I knew I wanted it at home, with a homemade smash cake (made by Dad), her cousins, lots of bows and jut a sweet and simple celebration. Due to rainy weather, I had to cancel the bouncy house that would have kept cousins busy for hours and had to rain check with a small group of friends, who were planning to celebrate with us. In the end, its always still a party (and loud) with just my immediate family. Vivi loved it!
I’m excited to see what is in store for this year. Vivi growing right before my eyes is an honor and I’m so lucky to be her mom. The past year flew by and somehow its already February. Time, slow down!
We love you, Vivi!
