To My Sweet Baby Girl,

Happy 1st birthday! Can you believe we’re already here, one year in?? 364 days ago—at this very moment—I was checking into the hospital, legs buckling, in excruciating pain.

But that’s a story for another day. 🙂

There’s no way you could realize how fast this year has gone—this being your first year on Earth, and all. But let me tell you, it’s been a blur. But it’s been awesome.

But before we get to the gushy stuff, I have to level with you for a second. And don’t hold this against me, because I think one day when you’re a mom, you may wonder this very same thing. When I first found out you were going to be part of our family, I was a bit worried. How was I ever going to love a second child as much as I loved my first? With a heart fit to burst with all the love I already had for your brother, I was frankly worried there was no space left.

But then I met you, and it was crystal clear: The laws of physics don’t apply to a mom’s heart.

I tucked your tiny body into the crook of my arm, took one look at you, and was lost.

You amaze me. You crack me up. You challenge me.

Thank you for the sweet giggles and the slobbery kisses. Thank you for always sharing your half-chewed food with me from your high chair. Thank you for your sassiness and your grumpiness and for always reminding your older brother that just because he’s a boy and he’s bigger than you, it doesn’t always mean he’s in charge. (A good lesson to hold onto for later in life, too, actually.)

And I don’t want you to take advantage of this too much, but here’s a secret. I actually kinda like getting up with you at 3am, because your cuddles are the sweetest feeling I’ve ever known. And also because I know sometimes you just want to hang out with Mom. One day, that won’t be the case. But just know that as far as I’m concerned, cuddles are always in bounds, no matter how old you are or what time of night it is.

So, happy first birthday, sweet girl. I’m so proud of you already. You’re totally gonna rock this Life thing.

I’ll see you later tonight.

Love,

Mom