The twins turned one on Saturday. I can't believe it. We celebrated and the babies had their first cake. However, in the midst of it all I was also sad and more than a little scared.

The first year flew by so quickly. One day into the next into the next until before I knew it the day was here when they would no longer be babies, but toddlers.

I'm sad because this is it for my husband and me. No more babies. While I don't know if I really want to go back to the middle of the night feedings - I do know that sometimes when the babies scamper away when I just want to sit and hold them, it makes me blue to think that they're growing up. Their new found independence will only continue...and most likely accelerate.

I'm also scared because my husband and I are responsible for molding and shaping these two individuals. We will be the ones that they ask for advice (hopefully) and we will be the ones that they turn to when their hearts are broken (which I know will happen but I dread). I'm scared because as they grow they will face challenges...they will feel victory and defeat...they will feel love and rejection...they will forge friendships, but also will know betrayal.

As much as I would like to keep them in a bubble forever and ever, I know that I can't. I only hope that I will somehow be able to impart to them enough wisdom to know what the right thing is, enough courage to do it even when it is difficult and a loving heart to share with those they encounter.