Oh Joy Begin

5 years ago today, on my mom's birthday (happy birthday, Mom!), I went into labor with Jude and life has never been the same! I have been reflecting a lot on those early days with Jude, as we sit in disbelief that he is soon to be 5. I could never had imagined then what this little boy would mean to me.

On that fateful day, I was in severe pain and was terrified as labor progressed. I would love to say that the moment they put Jude in my arms the following morning, I only felt bliss, but I was too shell shocked to feel much of anything. Those early days were really bad between sleep deprivation, difficulties with nursing (syringe feeding Jude when he couldn't latch for days), hormonal swings and so.much.pain down there! I wanted to go back in time to "before," when a colicky baby didn't have me feeling like a lactating hostage destined to bounce my whole life away on the yoga ball!

I asked Alexa to play Dave Matthew's today and the song, Oh Joy Begin came on. Woah, serendipity. I had never heard it before and it couldn't be more fitting for how I'm feeling today.

"Let’s not forget these early days

Remember we begin the same

We lose our way in fear and pain

Oh joy begin

Oh joy begin"

Jude placed in my arms after 4 hours of pushing. Perhaps my initial lack of joy had something to do with what the birth canal did to him! (dying laughing looking at the pic!!)

Another winner. When people told me what a beautiful baby he was, I thought maybe they were on crack ;) Or just being really kind to me in my emotional state. 

You know what they say, bad rehearsal, great show. When the fog of those early days had passed and he began to sleep more, I finally started to feel parental bliss. We were awed and amazed by all of his firsts. Jude was just the loviest toddler. So gentle, kind and loving. Cheeky, too and oh so verbal and precocious. He didn't tantrum, he wasn't aggressive towards other children (his sister ages 6-12 months excluded!) and he was a social butterfly. He soon entered school full time at ISA and really took flight, enthusiastically participating in every new experience. He made best buds, was introduced to cultures from around the world and thrived. He cares for his sister like no other and watching their relationship blossom has been the best thing.

Jude, we love you so, beautiful boy! Now let the birthday celebrations begin!

Age 1

Age 2 

Age 3

Age 4