12 Months

Sweet Emma,

I just laid you down to bed for the last time before you turn 1 year old. My heart is so joyful as I watch you grow and change daily, yet tonight my heart grieves that the first year of your life is over. The past year has been the best year of my life, as I have learned what life and love are truly about. The past twelve months have passed by much too quickly and it seems like yesterday that you were in my womb. I never imagined just how wonderful being a mother is. I am truly blessed to have you as my child.

You have developed such personality lately and it is so much fun being around you. You love music and bounce on your chunky little legs once you hear any music playing. You clap your hands constantly. You are quite proud of yourself when you dance while standing up and clapping your hands at the same time. It is precious! You are signing "more", "all done" and today you signed "milk" for the first time. You stand up all the time now and love to hold things in your hands while you are standing. You have not taken a step yet, but you are very close. You can say "mama", "dada", "hey", "bye", and "baba" (for bottle). You are an outside baby and complain anytime someone opens the door and you don't get to go outside. You love to go on walks and ride in the wagon at ESI (work). You love to swing and slide at the park. You have just started pointing and point at everything! You continue to wave hello and goodbye to almost everyone you pass. You are such an outgoing little girl and love every person you meet.

I am sad that the first year of your life is over, yet I look forward to the many adventures we have to come. Your dad and I love you so much and pray that you will oneday realize just how special you are to us.

We love you,
Mom and Dad