stopping to smell the roses

I can't believe it's almost February?! 2012 has been a great year thus far filled with blessings, laughter, firsts, and so much love. Yesterday we celebrated Ryleigh as we took part in her dedication at church. Jason and I both stood before our church community and promised to raise her in a home where God is ever present, and help her to know him as she grows. It was a very humbling experience, and one that marks the many of firsts to come in the year ahead.

As we were driving home I became a little disappointed in myself. Instead of reflecting on what had just happened, I was already looking ahead to the next thing...planning, and anticipating what the week ahead would bring. I pride myself on being organized, and involved...but I think often times I plan, and plan, and plan and then after what I've planned is over....I feel I've missed something. I believe I need to stop and smell the roses as some would say. So I've made a promise to myself and my family that I will try to slow down and just enjoy what's happening as it happens.

Ryleigh is already 4 months old already, and that is just crazy to me! She's growing so beautifully and we're enjoying every new discovery and taking the good with the bad. (The wonderful 9+ hours of sleep we're getting...but also her sassy attitude when she's fighting sleep to begin with) She's going to be very strong-willed and stubborn...but she wouldn't be ours if she wasn't! She's full of smiles, and loves to scream as loud as she can if you aren't paying attention to her. She has started giggling and it makes my heart melt every time! I think Jason and I would do just about anything to make her giggle....to that point we latch on to a sound or a face for a good 20 min just begging for her to giggle again and if anyone were here to see it, I'm certain you'd think we look like complete idiots!

With February right around the corner there are some new things on the horizon....the most challenging will be returning to work. I'm very excited about the new opportunity I have in front of me, but I know it will be hard being away from Ryleigh. We're hunting for a new daycare and I'm crossing my fingers that we are able to find the perfect fit for her, our family, and our schedule. I've been so fortunate to have been able to stay home with her these past few months, and even though I know it'll be tough, I know there are a lot of positives that will be born from this new chapter in our lives.
Say a little prayer (or two) for me please!

Ryleigh Anne 4 Months