"We're Going Streaking!"

New Year's Eve has changed dramatically over the years. I've hosted, and attended, some pretty wild parties in my day. In fact, in university, I remember when it was common for a certain someone to streak down any residential street on New Year's Eve (you know who you are). Someone usually vomited, and I'm guessing this year will be no different.

This year, in true "Amanda" fashion, I'm hosting another wild party. The attendees? A 3-month old, two 10-month olds, a 1-year old, and their parents. Nothing says party like a little pinot noir and Count-with-Me Ernie. Did I mention that the party starts at four o'clock and will likely be over before 8?

The truth is, I wouldn't trade this New Year's Eve for any other. I don't think that any parent would, would they? (I have to admit, my parties are pretty stellar.) It's my first year as a mom, and my daughter has already taught me so much that I feel like I'm entering 2012 a wiser, and hopefully better, person (based on my salary - again, I emphasize, $0/year - I already consider myself a philanthropist)! 

Although "baby brain" has prevented me from remembering a good third of 2011, here are a few things that this year has taught me: I would do absolutely anything for my daughter, anything; people will disappoint you, but you have to get over it and move on; people will also surprise you, and these are the moments you should dwell on; never be too proud to accept help when it's offered; no matter how hard I try, I can't "do it all" and will stop pretending that I can (God it feels good to admit that); it is absolutely unforgivable to put a great parent down to make yourself feel like an even greater parent (unless you're watching Teen Mom, in which case I think it's acceptable?); it's OK to feel ugly because you haven't showered or shaved your legs in days because, from the outside, all your daughter needs to see is your smile to know that she is loved.

Happy New Year friends!