Our sweet little Maya turns six months old a week from today, and I’m beside myself with bewilderment. Where did the time go?

I know all parents (new and old) feel this way — and I was adequately forewarned about the bizarre time/space continuum that is parenthood … but it still doesn’t mean I am prepared for just how quickly everything is going.

She’s becoming less and less an infant and more and more a little girl. She has filled out and even has some hair now. And she has personality … she can be very determined and serious/intent like her daddy … and smiley and snuggly/nurturing like her mommy. I have a feeling she’s going to be a nice combination of the two of us–hopefully with the best parts of each of our personalities 🙂

Every day, we’re blown away by her growth and development. She grabs for everything she sees (my hair, Luis’s glasses, my jewelry). She can sit unassisted for a little bit. She always wants to “stand.” She pays attention when we’re eating and, like a monkey, repeats intonation we use. She talks all the time: “ga” “ba” “da” and “meh.” We think she knows her name, too … though she doesn’t always respond to it (she’s almost 6 mths going on 16 years!).

It’s nothing short of amazing to watch this little wonder grow before your eyes.

You often hear woeful tales of new moms crying tears of frustration … and I’m not gonna lie, I’ve shed my fair share (especially in the beginning — sleepless nights, not knowing how to soothe her, breastfeeding issues up the wazoo) … and I’m sure there will be more to come as we move from stage to stage.

But lately, my tears have only been those of joy and incredulity.

I’m in a constant state of marvel. This amazing little girl grew inside of me … and now she is her own little person, full of love and light.

Sometimes I find myself just staring at Maya while she’s nursing or taking a bottle and feel like I should pinch myself because (and I hope this doesn’t sound bad) she is so beautiful and sweet and soft. When I see her eyes light up when I walk in the room, or she hears my voice … my heart literally stops. When I talk to her and she babbles back with indignation, I melt.

And I know we’re only just beginning.

I am sure I’m not the only mom to feel this way … but I will say this: I love this stage and look forward to what’s to come.