Dear Baby Girl, On Your First Birthday

“I love you, I love you, I love you.”

Words I will whisper to you ten million times throughout your life. And even as they fall from my lips for the ten millionth time, the sum of those words will not equal the depth of my love for you.

To think there was a time when I did not know you or what to do with you, how to love you or care for you. To think there was a time when your smiles and giggles didn’t light up my world and your warm little body didn’t snuggle against mine. To think there was a time when you weren’t in this world…is almost unthinkable.

Without you, my world would instantly mute in color, radiance and joy. You, my precious girl, have turned a bonfire of love and happiness into an inferno, with little sparks of light floating off into the universe.

Each day, I watch you with amazement. How quickly you have gone from a tiny bundle of helpless newborn to a toddler who runs around the house, stands on her tiptoes to reach tabletops, feeds herself and tries so hard to form words. You are swiftly becoming your own person, and I watch you for signs of who my little girl is going to be.

You have boundless energy and curiosity, as you rarely ever sit still and constantly point to things, wanting to know the name for everything you see. You are sure of yourself, as you hardly hesitate to leave my side or explore a new place. You are fearless, as you chase after dogs twice your size and squeal with delight when they lick you.

You are my girl, the baby I was meant to have. The tiny newborn who taught me I could stretch so much further emotionally and mentally than I ever knew possible. The 7 lb baby who inspires me to be confident, proud and less apologetic. You are my reason to be a better and more genuine person, to be real and present and not let life pass me by.

Thank you. Thank you for being mine. For drawing out a strength I did not know I had. For showing me that I can mother. For reminding me, every day, of the extreme blessings I’ve been showered with. For uniting me even more with the people I love. For showing me that this is how life is meant to be lived. Full of color, emotion, challenges and messiness.

So, to the most amazing girl I know, I love you beyond words and celebrate this first year of your life, knowing it is just a jumping off point for so many more wonderful years ahead.

Happy Birthday, my sweet, sweet baby girl.

Love,
Mama

• ← Flashback to day one
• Birthday Number One →