One year ago tonight—while having dinner at Zea and running into a friend from college—my husband and I were talking about how we were in no way ready for kids. Babies were the last thing on our minds.

Flash forward exactly one year, and I’m celebrating the New Year with my amazing husband and beautiful 11-week-old son, whom I couldn’t imagine not being a part of my life.

Life has a funny way of surprising us; or better yet, for me, life has a funny way of grabbing me by the shoulders and vigorously shaking me! Sometimes the universe knows better than we do.

Last year I opted not to publish a gushy, reflective post, but this year, I’m going to just pretend the postpartum hormones are still surging (perhaps they are?) and gush away.

An entire 365 days ago, I made a promise to myself that 2014 would be my year. I was happy with life, no longer envious of those who had better jobs, better homes, better opportunities, etc. I was comfortable in my own skin and was ready to embrace all adventures that life would throw my way—be they good or bad, anticipated or unexpected, easy or challenging—I was ready for anything.

While I initially struggled to uphold this promise, after time, I think I did exactly that—just not in the way I’d predicted!

In 2014, I turned 30. Rather than lament the passing of my twenties, I celebrated the start of a new decade. I was in the best shape of my life (I’m getting back to that point, slowly but surely, but taking care of Baby M is first priority) and I sure as hell didn’t feel “old.” I reminded myself that aging is a blessing and something denied to far too many people.

On February 11, one day after my birthday, I took that pregnancy test. As I’ve said before, shock, fear, and even anger radiated from me rather than complete over-the-moon happiness.

Flash forward a month or two after sharing our news with family and friends, and I began to adore pregnancy. While I probably didn’t bond with my “bump” as deeply as some women do, I loved and cherished every little flutter, knowing I would someday meet Baby M. I also loved how I felt and looked, having very few negative symptoms. And while the first couple of weeks home with a newborn were exhausting—mentally and physically—and challenging, I couldn’t be more smitten with my sweet, easy-going, angelic baby. 2014 has been all about little man!

Though the year was not as I’d expected, Mark and I managed to enjoy it. We had a great time on our “babymoon” to Memphis, made several trips to visit his parents in Mississippi and friends in New Orleans, and savored our last nights as just a couple by seeing some great shows, eating nice dinners, and enjoying the outdoors.

2014 was also the year of gratitude. After seeing numerous blog posts and pins on Pinterest, I decided to make a gratitude jar. Every day, I’d write down something—be it silly or serious—for which I was thankful. Although I had to double-up some days, I’m proud to say that I’ve kept my promise. I can’t wait to read through all of the little notes in the next week or so.

2014 has been challenging, but I can’t imagine it being any better. I know that 2015 is going to be even more spectacular. I can’t wait to watch Baby M grow and experience all of his smiles, giggles, and other milestones. While I’m not making any New Year’s resolutions, I think 2015 will be another year of gratitude and perhaps selflessness. Though I strive to better myself each and every day, I especially want to grow as a person and become a more caring, sympathetic, and genuine role model for Baby M.

Good night, everyone. May you have a safe and happy New Year full of blessings, good health, and plenty of adventure.