Can I just start by saying the parenting stereotype is true. And I am fitting it to a tee. This is me all week…
“Time flies.”
— Every parent ever
— Sydney Norquist
I think I said that at least 89 times on June 13, 2019 when Hayes turned one. It is absolutely wild how much changes in just one year of life. She went from breast-feeding 28 times a day to about 3 meals and 3 snacks, no boob or bottle included. She went from barely holding her head up to standing up unsupported and so soooo close to walking all on her own. She went from baby grunts here and there to baby babble and dada (no mama yet, sob).
Hayes is a spunky little one. She is extremely observant, smiley, and definitely has an opinion. She’s an early riser, just like her parents and usually gets up around 6am. Having her has, in some ways, changed our life completely, and in other ways, just made every little thing bigger, bolder, and more beautiful.
What Hayes eats
From the very start of solid food Hayes has been all in. She’s not afraid to tell you when she’s hungry and I can confirm that hanger is a thing for one year olds, not just moms. These are a few of her favorite meals and snacks:
- Bananas (LOVE)
- Mozzarella sticks
- Kids peanut butter Perfect Bar
- Raisins (thank goodness she like something to balance out the bananas)
What Hayes loves
Lately, when Hayes’ really loves something, she tightens her fists and pumps them by her side. It happened the other night when Jeff was eating Rice Krispie Treats cereal and Hayes wanted a bite. And she also does it when I arrive at daycare to pick her up (HEART MELTS), when she sees her daddy in the morning, and when Miles runs back from fetching a ball and drops it in her lap. Lots of love in this little family.
Hayes loves to watch her daddy goofy dance, and these days she joins in. At first she was angry that we put locks on the kitchen cabinets, but then she realized how loud it was then she shook them, so that’s now on the love it list. She’s a sucker for anything she gets to do outdoors—walk, run, swing, blow bubbles, roll the ball, etc.—and is still a big fan of the water during bathtime (we haven’t gone in a pool since swim class). And I can’t possibly forget Bananas. Oh my bananas. When this little lady sees a banana she drops everything. You start to peel it and she’s your best friend. BANANA ADDICT. And don’t even think about only giving her half of the banana, she knows there is another half and she won’t forget it.
This past year has been the best year ever (once again said every parent ever). I know one day we will get to tell Hayes all about these first 12 months brought and how she cried, snuggled, and bananaed her way right into our hearts. We love you Hayes Hill Nordquist.