one

This time last year I was lying in a hospital bed with a newborn baby by my side. My body felt torn up and inside out yet there I was, expected to care for an infant. Could I do it?

From Win's first breath he let us know what type of boy he would be. He had a strong cry, but not grating on the ears or harsh, and he didn't cry much. I remember I kept asking if he was okay and he was, he was just trying to figure out what was going on in his patient way.


Those first couple of hours after Win's delivery are so special to me. Our family of three was left alone to soak in the new, amazing feelings that accompany birth. Kent walked around the low-lit delivery room with our sweet, new baby boy while I recuperated. Win was so alert and took in everything around him. He was content and interested from the start.

At one point Win and I were alone for a bit. I held him close and I just knew, knew that he knew I was his mom and knew that I would love him more than anything forever. Bonded, just like that.

The first couple of months weren't easy. I had never felt so sleep deprived and my body seemed to heal slowly. In fact, that first month I kept wondering why people have more than one child. Birth is beautiful, but the aftermath is rough!

We got through it and Win has been a joy. Really. A joy. He is my best buddy. I can't imagine not seeing his happy little face and strong baby body bouncing up and down in his crib in the morning. I love his "wat dis?" question/statement as his pulls his pacifier out of his mouth, raises it high above his head then chucks it across the room. He is one endearing chap.

Big things are in store for Mr. Win. He is smart and coordinated, fun and funny, patient and loving. I'm not sure how much of his personality will stay the same over the years, but he is a special boy.

I'm so grateful to be Win's mom and I'm so glad we made it through the first year.

Happy Birthday, Win!