A Miracle Year - Charlotte is One

I can't believe our baby girl is a year old. Time has taken wings and discovered flight and like a bird we have watched the world below us pass by, pushed through turbulence after turbulence, weathered storms and sunny days both cold and scorching hot as we began this incredible journey through parenthood. Looking back now is amazing to see where we were compared to where God has us today. 

We knew going into parenthood that it wasn't going to be easy, but we had no clue what that meant or how it would challenge and effect us both in our walks with the Lord, our marriage and our outlook on life. The moment that perfect little bundle was placed in Alex's arms our whole life changed. 

This past year has been filled with miracles, hardships, fear, joy and a greater understanding of what is means to love sacrificially. Being Charlie's Mamma has taught me so much about God, love, endurance, patience and faith. I see God the Father in a new light now that I'm parent too. It brought and depth and closeness in my walk with Him than I hadn't experienced before. Loving a child of my own has taught me so much about what it means to joyfully sacrifice and endure patiently.

I've learned that I don't have all answers and I'll never be a 'perfect' parent, but have also been shown that there is beauty in the imperfection. God's grace is for me and my husband as we flounder through this new experience together. Everyday holds new discoveries, accomplishments and adventures. 

Watching Charlotte grow; seeing the sparkle in her eye as she uncovers new treasures and discovers life is more thrilling and magical than almost anything else I've ever experienced before. She is growing so fast before our very eyes. Embracing each day with excitement and enthusiasm we embark on adventures and travel time hand in hand - often times stumbling along the way, but that's what makes a good story I suppose. 

Now that Charlie is one, we are seeing a whole new side to her. She has an opinion about almost everything, strength beyond her age and a passion for anything musical. She loves to read almost any book especially if there is a cow or two involved, and has a special place in her heart for her stuffed Bunnies. She is a die-heart daddies girl and loves loves loves beards. Give her pears and cucumbers and she'll be your friend forever but give her cake and you will have made a true enemy. This child may be the only kid in the world who HATES cake, icing or anything of the like. If you want proof:

All in all it is so much fun to see her little personality blossoming and to watch her become a little girl- our little girl.

As much as we are so enjoying our girl grow and mature, there is still a battle she fights every day that we still don't have answers for or a way to help her through it. God has given this little miracle a fighter's spirit. She is so strong and so brave; I am so proud of her. We keep praying that the doctors will be able to figure out what is causing her so much pain some days. We keep looking for answers and try to understand what she is feeling and dealing with, but we know ultimately God will take care of her.

Our next steps include a thorough MRI and meeting with a neurologist next month. We have been really blessed with some amazing doctors who really listen and care for our daughter. A good doctor and compassionate nurses make a world of a difference when you are working through a diagnostic. We are so thankful to be in the care such understanding hands.

Reality check: Charlotte is a whole year old and time has begun to fly.

We wouldn't change a thing about this past year. Our journey have been an incredible adventure and though it isn't easy the rewards are great. As this next year begins we simply pray for wisdom and hope to embrace each day as it comes.

Off we go...

With Earnest Love,

Leah