16 January 2014

five & 02|52 (plus a few)


Writing a post about my girl's five month milestones, and the second picture in the 52 week project should be easy for me, but it isn't. I'd be lying if I said I didn't feel this intense pressure to write something worth reading. I guess that's what happens after a post goes viral? I don't know. Even admitting that gives me anxiety that strangers will use that vulnerability as a weapon. I suppose that's why I haven't really addressed the response, or why I probably never will aside from this.  I feel silly even writing this. I didn't expect my audience to expand from a couple hundred to a few million. That so many would share their hearts with me, and that I would be given some once-in-a-lifetime opportunities because of a blog post. It's strange and wonderful and terrifying all at once.

I just keep reminding myself, though, that not even a fraction of the five million + that read those words will come back to this space. Most have probably closed that tab, and forgotten my words by now, so I will come back here, and write how I would before. Mediocrely, at best. For me.

And for her.



Anabel is five months old. She is 14 pounds and 8 ounces. Almost double her birth weight! She is working on growing several teeth at once, and aside from the exhaustion that brings (to all of us), five months is the best month ever. I know I say that every month, and I know I am definitely one of "those moms," but I can't help it.

I don't think I have ever spent so many consecutive days in stitches. She is just so, so goofy. A clown by default. I can see her sense of humor developing and it makes us so thrilled for the months ahead. She is a rolling machine. She can almost sit up. She is a biter. A distracted eater. She likes the taste of her toes. Still crazy about Sophie the Giraffe. She is iffy about bath time, as she has upgraded to her bigger tub. She's on a mission to steal my water bottle, and figure out how to use it. She thinks Chance, our dog, is pretty darn hilarious, and when I click my tongue, too, but no one can make her giggle the way Steven does. She's also taking a liking to riding on his shoulders.

We celebrated her first Christmas with my mama in town, and her first New Years at home together, just the two of us. She also spent some quality time this past week with her adopted aunts, Mary Claire, Madeline, Marielle, and Sarah too! She still likes her comfy woombie (she will probably sleep in that thing until she's twenty), and refuses to go anywhere without her tiny mink blanket (the one my mom bought while I was pregnant, and I swore up and down I would never use). I thought I would mourn the time going by so quickly a bit more, but honestly it's really hard when life with her just keeps getting better and better (and better).

2 of 52

33 comments:

  1. Hey there! Don't worry, when I read your post about motherhood, I didn't come with the intent to judge, I just love your life's story. :) I, too, am LDS and I admire your love for your daughter and husband. I am excited about your upcoming move!!
    -Lacey

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  2. She just keeps getting cuter and her personality is so evident...LOVE your updates and so glad you are all doing so well!

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  3. I believe I came to your blog via that particular post but I've come back because you have such a beautiful way with words. I almost read it like I'm reading an awesome old memoir that I've found hidden in an old dresser or something (odd?). Think of how your grandchildren will read it and be able to feel like you are having a conversation with them. Anyway. You keep blogging for you...and for her...and that's really all that should matter.

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  4. i'm still reading. thank you for being authentic. just looked at your year in review too, and I'm so jealous i didn't think of that sparkler idea when i was bumping in july!!

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  5. She is so adorable! But yeah I kept seeing family members that don't even blog or read blogs sharing parts of your post. I was like oh wow haha! Honestly though 4-6 months was my favorite age with our daughter and then around 18 months to two lol. Even with the teething that's such an amazing age!

    J.

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  6. She is so beautiful! God Bless you and your family <3

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  7. She is absolutely beautiful. I am so happy you've been writing more because I've missed reading your posts, and seeing your beautiful photos.

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  8. She's just everything that is perfect. (like you don't know)

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  9. She has the prettiest blue eyes! The yellow bow seriously is a great contrast and makes them so much more prominent. She's too cute for words!

    www.sunnyfleurphotos.net

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  10. I loved your words before you were internet famous, and I love them still. Keep doing what you're doing, showing the world your love, light, and gratitude. It's a beautiful thing.

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  11. What a precious little angel! Love her romper and bow! I can't even imagine how crazy it must have been to have your post explode out the way it did. You are a great writer, photographer, and should be extremely proud you have touched so many lives with your blog. :)

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  12. I've bookmarked your blog and will continue reading! She is a doll and your writing is lovely. Our babies were born on the same day so I am right there with you on this amazing journey! I could never write about it as you do, so thank you! xo

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  13. I come back... every time. I love your way with words and your little girl is beautiful. Thanks for sharing.

    --
    www.bradleycowan.com

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  14. This is such a gorgeous way of documenting her life, I love the idea that when she's older she could look back on this. It's such an interactive alternative to a photo album! (And she's absolutely beautiful!) xx

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  15. So precious! She looks just like you!

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  16. I found your blog because of your "viral" post and look forward to reading more! I love the vulnerability and truth of your blog. I love that you write it for you (and your little one). The the beauty of it! Also that last picture is just too much! So beautiful!

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  17. beautiful, beautiful photos. I love the one of her sticking out her tongue, so adorable!

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  18. she is adorable as ever! and ya know what, I feel like i never write anything worth reading, so its an honor anytime someone takes the time to read it. I think a mama's thoughts and musings are the best though!

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  19. She's so cute! I adore her outfit and I can't wait until my little one arrives (I'm a first time mother) I really enjoy your blog =)

    http://faithpregnancyandfamily.blogspot.com/

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  20. what a cutie..i love her little yellow bow. and you've always had beautiful words worth reading! i love coming to your blog

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  21. I love these milestone posts! Currently preggo with my second and I love being reminded of what I have to look forward to...again!

    http://rockysmodernlife.blogspot.com/?m=1

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  22. I can see why she leaves you in stitches. such a goofball :)

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  23. Thank you for sharing precious moments of your girl. I love reading your posts and seeing pictures of your cute baby.

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  24. I loved your famous post.
    It has given me a tolerance for stretchmarks and a great respect for my body. I will read it every time I doubt myself - and, for that, I am so thankful.

    It's great that you are a "normal" blogger and recognize the obscurity of going viral. It makes you real.

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  25. She is so adorable, and looks just like her mommy! I'm so inspired by you and your husband! You write so lovely about your life..it's so raw and real!

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  26. Shes really starting to look like you and Steven. Thank you for sharing these precious moments with your girl.

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  27. Sweet mama I've been reading your blog for ages and you have never been a "mediocre" writer. Your words are magic, so don't ever worry about writing something "worth reading" because everything you write is. ALSO on a side note, you helped me out with a project, gosh, probably 2-3 years ago (so long ago that you probably don't even remember it haha), and I always wanted to send you something as a thank you. Does your darling girl have a registry anywhere by chance? I'll message you on Facebook in a bit too as I'm sure you get tons of comments on here. :)

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  28. my favorite blog, I really enjoy reading it. your words and description are beautiful.

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  29. I'm new to reading your blog! I absolutely love it! You're pictures are gorgeous and your words so sweet. I'm a new mom too (he's almost 1 already... does that make me a new mom still?!) and I can so relate to your words! Please come check out my blog if you have a chance (thedupaixproject.blogspot.com). Its definitely a work in progress, but I'm continuing to find my way and inspiration though excellent bloggers like you!

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