And just like that my baby is turning one. ONE. This month. I’m not sure how that’s possible. Our sweet lil’ Emma made a surprise entrance into the world and into our lives.

I was delighted to be a family of four. I had a son and a daughter. Life was good. But I didn’t want to be done yet. So we started the adoption process for the 3rd time. With adoption, there is no guarantee that it ends with a baby in your arms. This time, I was especially nervous that that would be the case for us. That we would be waiting so long that we’d eventually give up and stay a family of four. I think I could’ve been okay with that; but I’m glad I didn’t have to find out.

Needless to say, I was ecstatic when early in our wait we got that phone call letting us know we’d be bringing home another sweet addition the very next day. It was a whirlwind of emotions, but mostly happiness. I don’t know how we got so lucky, but we certainly know we’re blessed.

I can’t really remember life before Emma, but at the same time, it feels like only yesterday when that tiny lil’ bundle of love was placed in my arms. After some snuggles in the nursery, and a quick feeding we strapped her into the car seat and I carried her out of the hospital with the biggest smile spread across my face. I knew she wasn’t mine yet, but it didn’t matter. I was so in love. It was all so surreal. Hard to believe it was a year ago.

Our year has been filled with smiles, giggles and snuggles galore. I’m one who loves the baby stage. Seriously. Baby cuddles might be the best thing ever. Even in the middle of the night. So, I’m a little sad that my baby is practically one and not so much a baby anymore. That year went by a little too fast. Knowing she’s our last baby, I tried really hard to cherish the moments. But yup, the year still flew by!

It amazes me how much Emma has changed in the last year. She’s still my adorable lil’ peanut but is learning new tricks every day. My favorite might be saying “mama”. Melts my heart every time. I won’t take being called momma for granted. I know it could have went a different way and she wouldn’t have been mine. I know I’m mom (to all 3 of my kids) because of the sacrifices another mom made. That won’t ever be lost on me. I’m truly honored that I get to be her mom. I don’t know if I’ll ever get the chance to meet her first mom, but I’m sure she’ll be thinking of that sweet babe she placed for adoption… I hope she has peace and that she knows that baby is loved. And that she is too.
It’s crazy to think that a year ago, another baby was just a dream. A thought. A wish. A hope. A prayer. And now she’s part of our happily ever after. Happy 1st Birthday, Emma! We love you!
baby girl in the grass

mom with baby

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Alissa Kay

Alissa was born and raised in the Midwest and currently calls Wisconsin home. She's happily married to her college sweetheart and she's living out her dreams of being a stay-at-home mom. Although, let's be real, she's hardly ever home. She's the mom to 3 kids who all came to her via adoption. A boy (8) and 2 girls (6 and almost 4!). The kids keep her plenty busy, but when she has free time she enjoys a night out with friends or curling up with a good book.

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