Happy Birthday, Baby Boy

Dear Jack,
Today is your first birthday. Everyone gave us advice when I was pregnant and most of the time it was annoying. However, we are starting to realize most people were right. Babies grow up way too fast. Your first year of life has been amazingly quick.

It seems so recent that we were driving home with you in the car seat. It was the first time I felt a little anxiety and fear about being a parent. Leaving the security of the hospital was scary. Yet, you felt so natural to have with us at home. It changed our lives, but I wouldn't want it any other way.

Every time you hit a new milestone, I started looking forward to the next one. And each of those milestones was bittersweet. It meant you were learning, growing, and healthy. It also meant you were getting to be less and less of a baby.

I still call you my "baby boy," although you are hardly a baby anymore. Right now, you are close to walking. And seeing you with that look of pride in yourself is wonderful. Although each milestone has meant that you are growing up, I still look forward to watching you grow.

It is amazing to watch you learn how the world around you works. I sometimes will sit quietly and watch you play all by yourself. Sometimes you see me, smile, and head my direction. Other times you don't hear me at all and I simply watch you play.

You have brought so much joy to our lives. We are blessed to have you.

I am excited to see what the next year brings. I hope you continue to be the healthy and happy little boy that you are.

Happy Birthday, sweet boy.

I love you.
Mommy