small things

as i get closer and closer to emmy's first birthday i have been doing a lot of reflecting. a year ago i was scared and excited to meet her. and then shortly after she was born i was doubting i would be able to do this parenting thing. she cried so much and didnt sleep and i felt like i was doing everything wrong....but now almost one year later i kind of feel like i'm starting to get the hang of being a mother. and she's so perfect in everyway. each day she does something new and her personality is starting to unfold. i see both brad and i in her....stubborness, humor, determination, a little bit of a temper, and sooo loving. (you can decide which traits belong to whom) i'm really starting to enjoy this ride and am finding myself paying attention more to the small things - i think kids kind of force you to slow down and look around...

i love how she crosses her feet - like such a little lady
it's funny how something so small, like a little pair of shoes can really change your world - because of the little feet that wear them.

a little bit of grumpy

and strong will

she's the best parts of brad and i and i cannot help but admire her everyday for the little girl she is becoming....