Happy Birthday, Otis!

It's hard to believe that it has been a full year since I was debating when to allow the doctors to break my water and then a few moments later gathering a little boy into my arms. I will be the first to admit that I was in shock to see that you didn't quite look like your sisters, and the questions of ' will I know how to be a Mom to a little boy' played in my head.

But it didn't take long for Otis to put those questions at ease. He found his way into our hearts immediately. It's ironic to me that it took until 'the final baby' for me to love and appreciate the newborn stage. For it's quiet. It's snuggles. It's ooey-gooey baby squishiness.

Of course, it should go without saying that Otis was a good eater. A good sleeper. Generally amenable to life in our crazy home. All of these things definitely contributed to said 'love of the baby stage.'

I remember the first few weeks when the sleep had not yet come, and the darkness under our eyes was darker than we care to admit--telling each other we just had to make it through the first 2 years and then it would get 'easier'.I know that isn't true. Everyone tells me it actually gets harder. Or the challenges are just different.

And I get that.

And honestly, looking at my tank-of-an-almost Toddler I know we have tantrums and whining and bumps and bruises still to come. But I will take all of it. Because our family just would not be complete with out this little man.

Crying and everything. After all--it was his party so....

If you want to see more amazing firsts of my little Odie Boy check out the video we made for him here: The Year of Otis