First steps

TJ took his first steps the other day. This is going to be my last "first steps". It's bittersweet. He was so proud of himself and I was even more proud. Then of course I had tears in my eyes. My little baby took his first steps. I have now watched 4 of my children take their first steps. My fourth baby is getting bigger. I sometimes just want him to stay a baby. Sometimes I just want all of them to stay where they are, yet I am excited to see each of them grow. I always loved being pregnant. I loved my belly and feeling kicks. I loved being in the hospital and giving birth (maybe not the pain part) but bringing life into the world. I loved hearing "it's a girl" and it's a boy. Then you hold your baby for the first time and you just know what to do. You feel complete. I remember thinking "this is what life is all about." The love is so strong. That special bond you have is incredible. Now every time I hold Ryley, Joey, Owen or TJ, I still say to myself, "this is what it's all about. It's funny. Usually when one of my kids turns 1, I have another baby on the way. There is a part of me that misses being pregnant. On the other hand, I feel so lucky to have 4 beautiful healthy children and am happy to be done. It is now just time to enjoy them. They are very close together in age and I wouldn't change it for the world! It may be my last "first steps", but this is only the beginning of so many exciting days to come. I look forward to it all! Joe and I will have our hands full with our crew. I wouldn't have it any other way.