Her first birthday is getting closer and closer and.....

I really don't know how I feel about it.  It's a happy and sad sorta thing.  I'm happy that we've survived year one of parenting (ha!).  I'm happy that she's becoming a tiny human with a personality of her very own.  I'm happy that she can walk to the door when I come home from school.  I'm happy that she can say "MA-MA-MA" to tell me that she wants me.  I'm happy that she can order "people" food when we're out at a restaurant.  I'm happy that we're getting closer and closer to that "she will totally LOVE Disney" stage.

BUT..................

I'm sad that she already craves independence and freedom.  I'm sad that she's more wiggly than cuddly.  I'm sad that I've started to use the word "NO" and I'm sad that she gets mad at me for it.  I'm sad that time goes by way quicker than it ever used to.  I'm sad that there's only 17 years (minutes?!) before she could be out of the house forever....

Now I'm sitting here like a fool.  REALLY, TRULY thinking about this "AGE ONE" thing.  Crying.  And completely understanding how my parents must have felt as we all slowly left the nest.  And how they must feel now.  And how I want to hop on the first plane home and give them a big hug.

Gah.  Heartache.  That stems from the GREATEST LOVE your heart will ever feel.  It's so awesome and terrible all at the same time.......

C'est La Vie!!!!!!!