Reflections on parenthood

Yes, I am going to look back for a minute. Being a parent is the hardest and yet most rewarding thing I have ever agreed to do. I will say that I am glad that I didn't know everything that it entailed, or else, I am not sure that I would have done it, other than the fact, that I am following a commandment. My daughter has some unusual challenges, and they just seem to change over time as she gets older. They have gone from colic because of protein intolerance and possible allergies straight to the challenges of not being mobile and able to communicate, now to the "I want to do everything myself and do what I want to do! Aarrrggghhhh! I have heard it all, to it gets better because of this and this or its gets worse because of this and this. So yes, I love that my daughter can now feed herself, almost dress herself, understands me better, can walk on her own, and sleeps 12 hours a day in a 24 hour period! Which means I have some freedom again, why would anyone in their right mind what to give that up? Oh yea, there is that one thing I mentioned, following God's commandments. So I guess I am going to do my best to try and remember all the things that my daughter can do, the times she leans toward me for a hug and kiss, crawls into my lap just to be near me, when i hear her say mommy, laughs at me when i tickle her or make a funny face; all this moments help me forget the times that I have to take a deep breath or walk away because she is  behaving badly. Well, overall, I will say that being a parent has helped me become a better person even though it is not easy. When has anything been easy? As for other areas, I have also accepted a new calling in my ward. I am working in Primary as a counselor. It is so fun! I love working with the kids and I am so amazed at how simple the gospel can be, if we are just willing to do our part. Well, as usual here are some pictures of my latest adventures as a parent! Til next time!