We reached another {big} milestone on September 23rd - Gwendolyn Rebecca turned 6 months old! Praise Jesus! He's been so good to us when we are so undeserving.
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My sweet Gwendolyn,
Somehow you are already 6 months old! I feel like you've been a part of me forever, yet we've been together for such a short time. I've done everything I can to slow down time, and yet you continue to grow right before our very eyes. Or at least it feels that way. I picked you up one morning and you just felt heavier. And recently daddy commented on how tall you were. Like I said....before our very eyes *smile. It seems we are constantly playing the game "remember when?" with each other and reminiscing and laughing about things you used to do that now you've outgrown. Some we're thankful to be past (two hour crying fits at night and having to bounce you out in front of us to calm you down) while others we miss (your newborn-ness and super tiny clothes.) I'm anticipating the rest of my life following in a similar pattern...sad at what has come to an end, but excited to see what lies ahead.
Every day is an adventure with you.
You keep us busy and have forced us to take a good hard look at how we spend our time and energy. I've learned (it's an ongoing process) the importance of prioritizing, staying positive and working with your daddy as a team. I've also learned how selfish I can be. And stubborn. I was once told that having children would help sanctify you, and this has proven true for me. In my desperation to be a good wife and mom while balancing work and everyday life, I have found an even greater reason to lean on God. He fills in the gaps when I fall short (which is daily), and I am so thankful for that.
I only want what is best for you, and I know I can't do this alone.
I'm so grateful that you're strong and healthy. You are teething like a champ, and of all times decided to start sleeping through the night while those little toofers make their way to the surface. We didn't do anything differently - it must have just clicked! While I did enjoy our middle of the night snuggle time, I won't complain about the extra sleep it's provided on the nights that "go well." We aren't 100% consistent yet, but I feel good about the direction we're headed. Hopefully the nights of getting up three and four times are well past us.
You're giving solids a try. We seem to be getting the hang of avocados and we're excited to move on to bananas, sweet potatoes, carrots and maybe even some green beans. Mmmm! Sounds delicious. You are still a wonderful nurser and take bottles of breast milk at daycare no problem.
Speaking of daycare, what a blessing it's been!
Miss Kathy is so gifted and the kids adore you. I love hearing daddy's stories about what they do and say when he picks you up. I spent many hours worrying while on maternity leave about where we would take you on the days I work, but God led us in the perfect direction. I spend zero time worrying now. And being home with you two days a week has been a bigger blessing than I was ever expecting. I so cherish our time together, and it's allowed us to help out family in the area, travel easily on the weekends, enjoy summer and fall weather, catch up on things around the house (and much needed sleep), attend mommy and me class, and visit friends. I am much appreciative of the perfect working while being able to be home "gig".
You are such a happy baby and love seeing and watching people and things. You love a good song, dance, or "getchyou" and give us big smiles when we say, "Hiiiiiiii!" Oh, you melt my heart! You enjoy looking around, observing people, taking in all the sights and sounds of whatever it is that is going on around you. You may not be the life of the party, but I can bet
you'll be at the party. You're a goer and a doer, and definitely a mix of both me and your dad. I know one thing...you definitely have his sweet spirit. And my determination to get my way *smile. People comment on how relaxed you are, which I love because I used to think you were
a bit of a diva when you were "little." I love how contemplative and observant you are, and
I pray that God helps us foster your temperament and personality as it is revealed more and more. He has such wonderful plans for you, girl! I know he made you perfectly and wonderfully. You are just as you are meant to be.
I still struggle with feeling inadequate, but you can bet I make up for it in kisses. I'm so glad you don't mind. Yet. We can't wait to do new things with you - like your first Iowa State football game and your first Halloween (still debating about the perfect costume. It's a big choice!)
I can't wait to see what the next 6 months bring. What a precious, lovely, spirited gift you are to us! We love you so much. Thank you for filling this house with endless joy.
Love,
Mommy
