November and December are both birthday months in our home! My youngest, Charlie, just turned one and I can’t believe how quick the first year flew by. Sure, this isn’t our first rodeo and we’ve been here before, but this time it feels a lot more bittersweet. Even though it’s been a year, it feels like he’s always been a part of our family. He was meant to be a Stroh. From his giggle to those sparkly brown eyes, I’m one blessed Mama.
Favorite Memories From Charlie’s First Year
Successful Breastfeeding
When Charlie was born, I didn’t want to try breastfeeding. I had a horrible time with my oldest who wouldn’t latch. The memory of late-night struggles and the guilt of switching to formula was still present in my mind, three years later. To my complete surprise, Charlie was born hungry and latched perfectly. It was a special bonding moment between us that I’ll always remember. In the end, I had to switch to using a pump because I make a TON of milk. Still – awesome memory.
Bringing Charlie Home
We had no clue what to expect when Charlie came home. His older brother, JP, was set in his ways as an only child. My heart felt like it was bursting last Christmas when I had TWO sons in my life. I took an embarrassing amount of photos. Having two kids is hard, but even more fun than having one. I’ve enjoyed watching them bond over the past year. They play together, cuddle and (the best part) I have two smiles to wake up to.
Never Missing a Beat
As a blogger and Work From Home Mom, I’m very busy. Much more busy now than three years ago when my oldest was born. Charlie hasn’t stopped our family from doing the things we love. At three months, he traveled to Disney World so I could run the 2017 Princess Half Marathon. He’s on my hip at all of the Atlanta media events and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Some might think we’re crazy for doing so much with a baby, but it was totally worth it.
Play Time is Fun Time
Both of my kids love the swings. The first time you put a baby in the swing, and see their smile, is priceless. Charlie loves to climb EVERYTHING and play. Yet, he still has little desire to walk. He can walk, but chooses not to. It’s a lot more fun to climb, right?
All of the Firsts
The reason why this past year was bittersweet is because it may be the last of our “firsts”. We feel comfortable with two boys and who knows if we’ll have a third (leaving that in God’s hands). So I celebrated every occasion! I loved commemorating his first Halloween with photos. It was fun to watch each milestone and celebrate all of the holidays as a family of four.
Baby Snuggles
The best part of having a baby in the house? Baby Snuggles! It makes it all worth while. All of the sleepless nights, going broke buying diapers and spit up, seem like nothing in the end. I hope I never forget the sweet feeling of baby snuggles.
