In my head, I have composed this post over and over. I would tell y’all about all the crazy things I thought before becoming a mother: the work I would get done while also keeping my baby alive complete oblivious that keeping another human being breathing was a full-time job. I would joke how we thought we could actually contain her to one room in our house and the rest of the house would remain untouched and now I dare anyone not to find a trace of her anywhere in the house. I would try and put in words the amount of love you can feel but at the same time, that inward groan when she is babbling at 5:30 in the morning and you know you can’t just press snooze.

Being a mom is complicated.

What I truly never expected was how so many people would pull together to help me through this.

My college girlfriends who are always on the other end of the line when I need encouragement or want to celebrate a small victory.

My nieces and nephews who adore Baby G and are always there to help us out or just be ridiculously cute with her.

My mother and sister who have made weekly treks to Madison to laugh, fold laundry, and cuddle with Baby G when I just needed a break (and couldn’t face any more laundry).

The amazing group of mamas who have been my lifeline through every twist, turn, and damn tooth that has gotten in my way.

This past year has been a wild ride. I am so excited for what is to come.

Thank you for your patience with me. I am still dedicated to bringing you whole food recipes and tips for making healthy cooking easier, but as you may have guessed, I am split between many loves right now.

For today, my attention is focused on this little strawberry blonde girl who caught our hearts.

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Happy Birthday Baby G!