One

It's just after 5:00 in the morning and I can't sleep.

I can't seem to shut my mind down. Partly because of the anticipation (and mental to-do list) for the party this afternoon. Partly because of the emotions of a nostalgic week coming to a head.

By baby boy is one today.

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Dear Jackson,

You are the miracle your Daddy & I waited so long and prayed so hard for.

You amaze me every single day with your curiosity, open mind and fearlessness. You are the funniest person I know. You are strong-willed, even at this young age. You are the best cuddler in the whole world. You are a good eater and a good sleeper. You are very ticklish. You are independent. You are ornery yet sweet. You are strong yet sensitive. You are the very best pieces of your Daddy & I all rolled into one little person.

You don't sit still much. You like to make noise. Your favorite toy is Daddy's football.

You are so handsome. Everybody says you look exactly like your Daddy. And you do. But I like to think there's a little of me in there, too. Your big blue eyes light up a room. And melt my heart.

You make me a better person. More patient. More understanding. More tolerant. More flexible.

You have filled my heart and changed my life in ways only a parent can understand. While it seems like just yesterday that you came into this world, I can not remember my life without you in it.

You have the whole world ahead of you. So much to see and learn and do. And I will be here every step of the way. When you need me. But for now...

You are one year old today.

Happy first birthday, monkey.

Love,

Mommy