12 MONTHS!

Sorry for the lack of updates. The holidays kind of took us down for a while, followed by Kenley's big 1 year extravaganza, which will be a whole separate post. Here is the big 12-month update!

I can't believe we have a toddler! Our baby girl has grown into such a sweet, gentle little girl. If there is one word to describe her, it would be sweet. She is just a joy and each month keeps getting better (holding my breath for the toddler idiosyncrasies to start).

Here are some fun facts about Kenley at 12 months:

-We had her 12 month check-up yesterday. Kenley now weighs 23lbs. (78%tile), and is 30.25in long (83%tile). Someone had a growth spurt, and for the first time is in the higher percentile in height than she is in weight!

-We are up to 4 teeth now! The two on top and bottom (as seen in the below photo). So far, teething has been going ok. She was more cranky with the top ones coming in, so hopefully it doesn't get too bad with all the others.

-She is cruising like a crazy baby! No walking or unassisted standing just yet. She's very cautious, and even feels for the floor before dropping to sit down.

-She now can say 4 words. "Mama", "dada", "da" (this is dogs) and "bu by". We also think she is trying to say "Dylan" probably cause she hears his name so often. She definitely loves Dylan more than Zoe! ;)

-Her new thing is pointing. It's so cute. She also waves when she says "bu by" but by clenching both of her hands toward herself.

-She is a great sleeper. Ever since we did some minor CIO (Cry it Out) she sleeps for 11+ hours in her crib every night. It's so great to lay her down at 8pm and have time to time to hang out with Mike sans baby. Plus, she's just so much happier getting a good nights sleep, as we all are!

-She loves banging on her drums and playing with her blocks. She even has started putting things away, back into their boxes. Hope she can remain a good cleaner!

So we survived the first year! I have to say, thinking back to where we all started and not having a clue what to do seems like eons ago. Yet, at the same time, it feels like the year just flew past and the tiny newborn in our arms is now a crawling, food eating, jabbering, toddler. You never really understand how fast life goes until you have kids. Then you realize that when all the moms would say "They grow so fast," they really meant it. You start to wonder what you used to do with all your free time.

Parenthood has been the most challenging, rewarding, selfless, and wonderful task that I've never taken on. I'm so excited for this new year and all the new things we get to learn about Kenley. I'm also excited, because some of my best friends are having their first babies this year, and they too will now get to understand this wonderful relationship and life that a child creates. Plus, I'm excited for Kenley to have lots of new friends! :)

And now, the many faces of Kenley Vi!