REFLECTIONS

This time last year, we made the decision that I would no longer be an unemployed dad, but officially be a stay-at-home dad. And here I am a year later, still happy we made that decision. It started out slow and cold with a winter that felt like it would never end, but it ended up being a really good year with a lot of growth, both physical and emotional. It didn’t seem like it in the moment, but looking back, a lot happened. From the insignificant, to the noteworthy, to the unexpected (good and bad), it all piled up to be quite the year.

The year began with Ellie turning one, a major milestone for her, and for us. She had grown into a full blown walking toddler. We had grown with her too, but in much different ways. Our life priorities, patience levels, and multitasking skills had matured over the year too. And since then, we continue to grow. My confidence level as a parent and a dad has grown stronger. I don’t doubt my instincts with Ellie, or in the kitchen as much as I used to. My social skills still remain a lot to work on though, and I will try to control my shifty eyes in 2012.

But as many things change, some things stay the same. Or, change, and then change back again. Ellie wasn’t napping or falling asleep the easiest back a year ago. She changed though and was sleeping and napping like a champ for the longest time. But now, a year later, we are kind of in the same spot. Right back to where we started. It’s kind of funny how that happens.

As for my blog, wow, it’s been an exciting year! I stopped using blogspot and launched my very own thegoodthedadandthebaby.com domain name last January. I had just a handful of likes on facebook and now, there are 153! The bullying I did to friends and family paid off. (If you haven’t “liked” it yet, you should, just sayin’) I also had two posts printed in the News Herald paper, and then in May, I started my Domestic Specialist column for the Patch. In August I celebrated my one year anniversary of my blog. I’m looking forward to seeing what 2012 will bring. Thank you to everyone who reads, for the support and positive comments over the past year.

The year definitely had its highlights; trying 39 flavors of ice cream, losing my expensive camera and then receiving an anonymous donation to replace it, a complete bedroom renovation, visiting Aya’s parent’s in Japan, summer family friends visit, story time, Japanese school, swim class (so glad that’s over,)mallwalking, museum trips, Ellie’s many many changes, gaining new friends, and saying good bye to others.

2012 will be a new challenge as I start the year to tackle Ellie’s sleep problems. But I’m ready to face this new test with a renewed sense of focus and determination. And with Ellie turning two this year, she is going to have a whole other set of firsts and changes to be excited about. She is already starting to talk more, in English and in Japanese! She’s dancing more, interacting more, and comprehending more. She is also calling me Dada now, which is a big deal for me considering she used to call Aya Dada and me nothing! So Ellie, it’s 2012. You and me! and mom! Let’s make it another great year!

Happy New Year!