Cherishing January Moments

 As January came to a close, I found myself reflecting on how much joy is packed into the smallest moments. The days may feel routine—wake up, feed and dress Mads, play, daycare, work, repeat—but somewhere in between, there are tiny flashes of magic. The kind that makes you pause, soak it all in and commit it to memory.

One of my favorite things about this season of life is how present Mads keeps us. She doesn’t care about to-do lists or schedules. She’s fully in the now—grabbing for my face with her tiny hands, erupting in giggles at the most unexpected things, and melting into my chest when she’s sleepy. These moments don’t last forever, but I want to remember them forever.

Mornings with Mads have become something special. Whether it’s snuggling in bed, exchanging sleepy smiles, or just watching her stretch as she wakes up, these slow starts are some of my favorite moments of the day. There’s something about the way she looks up at me—pure love and trust in her eyes—that makes time stand still. It’s the kind of feeling I never want to take for granted.

Lately, Mads has become our little kitchen companion. Whether she’s perched in her bouncer with a big smile or strapped to us while we cook, she’s always happy to be part of the action. Her grin is contagious, and her little hands grasp at whatever is nearby—usually a plate or a spoon. Even something as simple as prepping dinner feels different when she’s there, watching with curiosity and delight.

One of my favorite things in the last few weeks has been watching a very sweet relationship develop between Madeline and Tex. Mads has really started to notice and love Tex. She smiles so big when she sees him and giggles when he licks her face. 

Watching Mads explore the world is endlessly fascinating. She’s constantly learning, constantly taking everything in. One day, she’s just observing; the next, she’s rolling over with determination. She’s found a new favorite pastime—kicking her feet up and trying to eat her toes. And the way she looks at herself in the mirror, wide-eyed and full of wonder, makes me wish I could see the world through her eyes.

Evenings have a rhythm of their own—warm baths, soft pajamas, and cuddles before bed. There’s nothing quite like holding Mads in a warm blanket, feeling her little body relax as she drifts off to sleep. I know these moments won’t last forever. One day, she’ll be too big to curl up on my chest like this. But for now, I hold on a little longer, hoping to freeze time just for a little while.

The second half of January wasn’t marked by any grand adventures or major milestones. It was filled with the little things—the tiny, everyday moments that make life so full. And in the end, those are the moments that matter most.

She is growing so fast. Sometimes she even holds her own bottle. 

Mads, you are my greatest joy, my sweetest love, and the best reminder to slow down and cherish every second. Here’s to all the little moments still to come.