Looking back at 2008

Wow...what a year this has been. I remember so vividly last Christmas and New Years and the sense that something BIG was about to happen to us. We had been planning for a few months to start our family and the news that I was pregnant before the holidays was a real gift. There was a lot of excitement and anticipation about the year ahead.

Little did I know then how this new life would completely change and improve what we as a couple had managed to create. In 2008 we have become a family. It is a feeling I can only describe as "whole." There is this new unit and it takes all the pieces of our old life and makes them have more meaning. The sense of selflessness and putting Elisa's needs first was a welcome shock, but a shock nonetheless. But once we figured out how to do that and how to keep her as happy and safe as possible, life got a whole lot easier. That's not to say we have things all sorted out...far from it. But what I think we have gained this year is a new appreciation for our own families, especially our mothers. And we also have a confidence that this girl in our lives will grow up to recognize how loved she is.

Every day there is some new moment to remember--a new look or smile to react to--and it all reinforces the sense that we are very lucky to be with her. Elisa has already changed so much in 4 months that I'm bursting with excitement to see the next 4 months...and the 4 after that...and...It's like there is a newness to life and to each week that passes and it brings more and more anticipation of the next. And while I will admit that this same feeling was very overwhelming in the first two months, it has become my greatest joy now that we have the benefit of more sleep and a more restful schedule overall. I know we are fortunate to have a happy baby who has good health and really that is all that I wanted this time last year. The fact that she turned out to be as beautiful and smart and playful as she is, is just a bonus. And it's one more reason to celebrate her safe arrival and entry into this world. Thank you to 2008 for all that you brought us.