Lexi is WALKING!!!!!!!!

I would like to start by retracting a former claim. A couple of weeks ago I announced, "Lexi is WALKING!" This was (kinda) incorrect. I should have announced that Lexi was taking her first steps. It was very random and inconsistent, but she was taking a few steps here and there. Hardly "walking" by all the critics standards.

As of today I would like to announce, "LEXI IS WALKING!!!!!!" She is consistently walking across rooms and actually using walking as a mode of transportation. On Saturday afternoon during a marathon of football, she suddenly stood up and took a few steps toward Brandon. We got on the floor with her immediately, called Chip into the room, and proceeded to watch her walk like it was something she'd been doing for years. I am one proud mama. Here's the proof for all you nonbelievers...

Party planning is in FULL swing again. I have ordered the 2 tier cake, reserved the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse bouncy, planned for another small bouncy and ball pit, bought the supplies and food, designed the custom invitations, organized the game and activity schedule, lined up a photographer, and ordered Lexi's one-of-a-kind birthday girl outfit. I am totally out of control. I came to realize this the other night when I woke up at 3 am and could not stop thinking about the party long enough to fall back asleep. Thank goodness my email and etsy accounts come to my phone, or I would be in trouble. I figure my first baby girl only has her first birthday one time, so why not go big?? I would give that sweet girl the world if I could. One side note, Mickey Mouse will not be making an appearance at the party as prior planned. Turns out Mickey is copyrighted, and "Mr. Party Mouse" is something of your nightmares. I definitely don't want to poor kids going home with awful thoughts of Mr. Party Mouse.

So my genius child is also forming phrases now. The other day I was feeding her dinner, while Brandon was doing the dishes. She looked directly at him and said, "Hey, Dada." We both teared up a little at the small gesture. Why oh why do they grow up sooooo quickly??? *tear*

I do this blog for me to remember all the little things that Lexi does. I have mentioned that. One thing I never want to forget is how precious it was last night when she feel asleep in my arms on the couch. I am really proud of the fact that we lay Lexi down each night with her bottle and music, and within 10 minutes she is out like a light. However, every now and then I put aside my strict nighttime rules and just enjoy holding that precious girl as she dozes off. I did that last night. For some reason, she did not want to be in her bed by herself. I went and got her, and layed down on the couch with her. It may seem like nothing, but laying with her while she rubbed my hair in the quiet, dark room was one of the most beautiful moments of my life. It's so incredible to me how a mother's (and father's) love is unlike anything else imaginable. It is truly the essence of unconditional love. So so amazing.

<3