I decided to put my Think Kit question on my mom blog today since it is about Raven.  They asked me to share a moment that stood out to me this year.

   As a mom, there are so many moments that stand out in Raven's development.  Obviously I will never forget the first moment I got to hold my baby girl.  It is an amazing yet odd sensation of holding this tiny creature that lived inside me for almost 9 months.  One second I was pregnant, the next second, I heard a scream of a newborn...so surreal!

   The first four weeks were a lot of feedings and naps (for the baby, not so much the parents).  Newborns don't really have a recognizable personality, at least I didn't feel that way.  Then came my birthday on April 23.  Raven was 4.5 weeks old.  I had her in her car seat in the bathroom while I put makeup on so we could go to lunch with my husband for my birthday.  I looked over at Raven and she looked at me, smiled, and made a small giggle noise.  It was my favorite birthday gift!  The smile and giggle symbolized that Raven's personality was developing and it was a wonderful moment I shared with her.

  Now at almost 9 months old, Raven has LOTS of personality.  Her moods can still be a little baffling at times since she's still a baby (crying one second, then suddenly laughing).  Her curiosity fascinates me as she discovers this new world she is living in.  I feel great joy when I hear Raven laugh because every mom wants their child to be happy and content.  I'm also thankful to have a social baby who smiles at strangers and enjoys car rides.

   It's still a long road ahead of me to raise a child, but I know it will all go so fast.  I just cherish the times she makes me smile and I'll never forget the first time she truly smiled at me.