Most of the time, I write blogs about my experience as a parent. Today, I'm writing a blog post specifically for my daughter... 

Maeve, today you are one. 

So of course I'm going to say things like, "Where has the time gone?" and "My baby is growing up." And all of it is true. This last year has been incredible, and I've loved watching you grow.

And Then Suddenly Your Kids Become This Grown Up

To be honest, bits of it are a blur thanks to the fact that you're a non-sleeper (like your big brother) but that's why I'm doing my best to write, take pictures, and make videos: so I won't forget. 

I never want to forget these early years. I never want to forget how I felt when I first held you in my arms, one year ago today. When I looked down and saw your high cheekbones, and your faint dimple as you laid on me, skin to skin, in the hospital. I never want to forget what it was like to have you sleeping on my chest in those early days. I never want to forget that I was your favourite blankie for the first year, and you'd grab my shirt and suck your thumb - holding me close. 

Even though you wake several times a night, and I've taken to just sleeping in bed with you, I must admit: I love our slumber parties. I love seeing you beside me, bum in the air, mouth agape. I love knowing that every couple of hours you're going to call out for me to snuggle you close so you can fall back asleep. 

This past year I've loved watching your brother and you play and laugh together. He has so much love for you, it brings tears to my eyes and fills me with so much joy. No one brings a smile to your face like Cole can. I hope you always know that you have one another, and know how lucky you are. My two little loves. 

In this past year, you've learned to walk at 10 months old, and you're quite the little climber. You like to get into cupboards, and you're definitely going to be my "throw everything into the toilet" child. You're super-over-the-top affectionate (which we all love) and you are very determined to get what you want, when you want it. I'm sure this quality will serve you well later in life, but right now - it's exhausting.

"No, you can't play with the knives." 

So far, you have many words. You say Mama, Dada, Nana, Maeve, dog, Paw Patrol (Cole's favourite TV show), bubbles, Babar, and ribbit (while you try to jump like a frog). When you're feeling needy, you cry for me and call me "Meems." 

You are an excellent eater, and consume about three avocados a week. You also love broccoli, and can already feed yourself with a spoon (this is very exciting from a parenting perspective). You are also impossible to change, because you always flip over and have been able to take off your own diaper for months now. It's a UFC match every time we need to change you. Usually, you win.

Quick Trick For Making Diaper Changes Easier

Maeve, you are exhausting, and adorable, and oh-so-kissable. You are funny, sweet, determined, and have the most infectious laugh. You fill our hearts with so much love, and I hope you always know how loved you are.

Happy first birthday Maevey Bean!!!