One year ago...

Tomorrow marks the one year anniversary that we left our home in Amarillo, said farewell to our family and friends, and became nomads for over 5 months. Wow, what a year it has been! And I know that I mention this situation a lot—but it was seriously a slightly traumatic time in my life. Sad, I know, I have lived a pretty quiet and sheltered life and this rocked my world. But, also don’t judge me until you have done it. It didn’t sound too bad to me either when I was preparing myself for it, and then I actually lived like that for almost half a year—it was insane! I have learned so much since this time last year….

I learned that I really, really hate hotels. They are filthy—regardless of how they LOOK! I’ve seen how they clean them, ewww!

I learned it’s really hard to move, pack, and unpack boxes—especially with a baby. We did it 6 times in a matter of 5 ½ months.

I learned that I am a pretty selfish person.

I learned that long distance car trips are NOT fun with a baby and dog, but they could have been so much worse. At least Saylor was still at the age that she slept a lot. It would be pure torture now!

We learned that Samson can stay inside the house when we leave. Obviously we didn’t have a backyard to put him in when we left and we soon realized that he does not chew, pee, poop, or destroy anything at all if you leave him alone with Animal Planet on. Now that he has a backyard again, he refuses to stay out there for more than about 20 minutes at a time. We have a very high maintenance Labrador.

I learned that I am not as tough and independent as I thought I was.

I learned to make baby food in a hotel kitchenette—not fun! That didn’t last long. (and Saylor gagged at my baby food anyway—I thought it tasted just like the Gerber kind—she did not.)

I learned that I relied on my friends and family a lot.

I learned that the house you bring a baby home to will always hold a very special place in your heart.

I learned that you really can get tired of eating out, even at Cheesecake Factory. I am an eating out kind of girl! I like it. Or maybe I just really dislike cooking. But I was so ready to have some home cooked food when we finally got settled. (Don’t worry, I’m back to my old self now, though.)

I learned that no matter where you are, hotel or not—being together as a family is what truly matters.

I learned of the greatness that is Panera Bread and their Strawberry Poppyseed Salad! YUM.

I learned that I love being home with Saylor every day. She keeps me laughing.

I learned that I like blogging. It has become my outlet. It keeps my family informed. And, most importantly, Saylor will be able to look back someday and hopefully get some kind of idea of how much joy she brings to my life!

I learned that it’s really fun to go to the grocery store—or really anywhere for that matter—in places you don’t know anyone. You can literally crawl out of bed, look a complete mess, and not have to worry about running into ANYONE! It’s awesome!

I was reminded that God is Faithful, He answers prayers, and He provides.

I was reminded that my relationships with my close friends and family are so very precious to me.

I was reminded that no matter how old you are, or how far away—You always need your mom! Especially when you are a new mom yourself.

I was reminded that my husband is a very patient, understanding man.

I know that my marriage is stronger!

I know that this girl will ALWAYS, ALWAYS be a Texan at heart.

I know that I have so, so much to be thankful for.

I know that I am a better wife, momma, and believer because of our adventures!

Our little family the day we left last year--wow, how my baby has changed!!

My family (minus my mom) the day we left.