Happy, Happy Birthday JT Dear

His first year of life was, by far, the fastest year of my life! We are so glad this little boy is a part of our family. We celebrated his April 1st birthday with Uncle Tim and Aunt Kate, the soon-to-be proud parents themselves. We have loved having them live in Utah this past couple of years, they have been so good to both Olivia and John.

These pictures aren't posted in any particular order.

JT got a cool toy that blows balls up into the air, a basketball hoop (Mike insisted), some pajamas, and a new outfit. I also made some letters to hang in his room by modge podging some scrap paper on the cardboard letters J, T, B.

Olivia was by her brother's side each step of the way as he opened his presents.

Mike insists this is a slam dunk. Though Daddy's basketball dreams may have to be put on hold, since JT is not even on the charts for height and weight. He slips under at 19 lbs. and 27 1/2".

Mike's response? "That's okay, running backs can be short!"

He tried pizza for the first time and loved it!

We had fun each making our own pizzas from a variety of toppings.

All About JT

JT early Dec. 2008
JT Aug. 2008

JT Dec. 2008

Lately I've been keenly aware of the lack of postings about JT on this blog. It seems a perfect case of "second-child syndrome." Yet, I must say JT is the sweetest baby, and we have enjoyed the first year of his life so much.

Having a baby the second-time-around has been enjoyable; I've felt so much more relaxed and have really been able to just appreciate and savour each stage, knowing how fleeting they pass.

'll admit to some feelings of trepidation upon finding out that Mike and I were expecting a boy. Mike was thrilled from day one! I, however, wondered if I would know how to relate to boy. Obviously, I felt I understood being a girl more, so how could I be a good mother to a boy? And, although I still read, pray, study, and think much about how to raise the sweet little boy to be all he can, most of these fears have melted away under the warmth of the bond I feel towards my little man.

Here is a list about what I love so much about JT:

He has his Dad's kind, earnest blue eyes

He is patient (yes, even as a baby, he is as patient is a one-year-old can be)

He is good natured and loves to laugh and have fun. He loves "jumping" on the bed with his big sister, "wrestling" with Dad, and tickles from Mom.

Nothing is better than hearing his laugh

Loves balls, being outside, and being active

Gets excited by the energy and playfulness of his big sister

Becoming a parent is what teaches us how quickly time passes, and it seems unbelievable to me how quickly this past year has gone. JT changes and communicates more with us each day though, and we look forward with anticipation to see his personality grow and emerge.