we climbed a mountain

{Today, Theo is one. A whole year old!}

Last week the sun was shining and the air was mild so I decided to take Theo for an epic walk on top of the mountain (those of you who don't know Montreal should note that our "mountain" is more of a very large hill in the middle of the city). The last time I had walked the trails up there was when I was 9 months pregnant and doing everything in my power to kickstart labor.

We drove to the top of the mountain, parked the car and got dressed for what I thought would be a nice Spring jaunt. Theo was bundled up in his stroller and I was wearing a light jacket and Converse sneakers. By the time we left the parking lot, I realized that I had made a tiny huge mistake. The trails were iced over in some spots and sludgy and muddy in others. We were essentially off-roading but I was determined to make it to the belvedere to show Theo the view of the city. We trudged on, getting a few confused looks from fellow hikers who were dressed in full winter gear. It was a bumpy ride for Theo but he was squealing with delight, mainly because we passed a ton of overly-friendly squirrels.

When we reached the halfway point, I thought about turning around and heading back to the car. My sneakers were caked in ice and mud and the squirrels were getting agressive. I looked back and noticed the outline of the large dome that tops St-Joseph's Oratory over the trees. It is a sight that will forever give me strength because it was the very same view I had from my hospital room the day I gave birth to Theo. I would open my eyes between contractions and stare at this enormous structure. They say that miracles have taken place there and hours into my labor, I couldn't help but hope for one more.

As I pushed our stroller through the slush and slipped on several icy puddles, I questioned why on earth I had opted to do this. We could have gone to the mall. We could have gone for donuts (again). Yet, I was so drawn to the mountain that day. It wasn't until we reached the expansive lookout that gives out onto Montreal's downtown core that I realized why we had to see this through. It had been nearly 12 months since I had stood at this very spot with Theo. He was in my belly then and now, he was in my arms. We had climbed a large hill mountain together. Literally and figuratively. Sure, it was a rocky start, there were some obstacles along the way but now here we stood, enjoying the view.

Raising a child is so much work. It will test you in every way imaginable. That's why the rewards are so sweet; why every smile, giggle, funny face and sound stops you in your tracks and takes your breath away. It is an accomplishment that no one can take away from you; one that makes your heart feel like it could explode.

Happy birthday Theo, my little miracle. I could not be more proud of you. xo

P.S. - You owe me a new pair of Converse sneakers.