Mama, You Got This

I can’t believe it—Lala is turning TWO on Sunday! How did we get here so fast? It feels like just yesterday I was growing her in my belly, waiting to meet this little person who would change my life forever. And now, two years (plus those nine months of “cooking”) later, she has turned into the smartest, kindest, most adventurous, loving, and wild little girl. Being her mama has been the most incredible experience—full of highs, lows, laughter, tears, and all the crazy, beautiful moments that make up motherhood.

Her Grand Entrance

Lala’s birth was amazing. From the second she arrived, she was literally glowing—radiating this beautiful light that just made everything feel so special. Isaac got to share a sweet moment with her right away, and then I got my turn to just soak her in, completely in awe of this tiny human we had created.

Baby Lala: The Meat-Loving Adventure Queen

By the time she hit four months, Lala was such a fun, happy baby. She was always down for an adventure, and this was also when she discovered her love for meat (seriously, this girl is a carnivore at heart). We took her everywhere, and she just rolled with it, smiling and giggling through it all.

The Harder Moments

Around seven months, things got tough for me. I started struggling with postpartum depression, and going back to school made it even harder. Leaving her was painful, and I was also really struggling with my body—not feeling like myself anymore. But through all of that, Lala was my constant. She didn’t care what I looked like or how I was feeling—she just loved me, and that was everything.

Turning ONE & Taking Off

Lala’s first birthday was a blast! She had JUST started walking a few weeks before, so she was officially on the move, making sure we all stayed on our toes. That same month, she went on her first flight to visit family and attend a wedding. She had the best time running around with her cousins and showing them how to be a wild child.

Hawaii, Baby!

At 14 months, we took her to Hawaii, and let me tell you—it was the PERFECT age to go. She loved the beach, the sand, the waves—every single second of it. It was such a special trip, and I know she won’t remember it, but I always will.

Soaking Up the Last Moments as a Family of Three

That summer was all about spending as much time as possible with just Lala before MJ arrived. We did so many fun things—days at the water park with Lolli and Pops, nighttime swims with Daddy, and just making the most of those last few months before everything changed.

Disney Days & Big Sister Life

Literally the day before MJ was born, we made one last Disneyland trip. We went all the time her first year because we had passes, and she LOVED it. “It’s a Small World” was her ride, and she was always rocking her Mickey ears. Later in September, she got to go on a special Disneyland trip with just Lollipop, and I know that was such a fun memory for her.

Holidays, Cousins, and a Little Chaos

The holidays were so much fun with Lala stepping into her role as a big sister. She got to see her cousins for Thanksgiving, which was pure chaos in the best way. Christmas was a little rough—she was sick—but that didn’t stop her from having the best time opening presents and cruising around in her new car.

Almost TWO & So Much More to Come

And now, here we are. She’s almost two, and I honestly can’t believe how fast time has flown. She has already lived such a full and fun life, and I know this next year is going to be just as amazing.

Lala, you are my greatest adventure, my sweetest love, and my wildest ride all wrapped up in one. Watching you grow is the best gift, and I can’t wait to see all the new things you’ll learn and do this year.

Happy (almost) birthday, my sweet girl. Mama loves you more than words can say. 💕