to my baby on her birthday

Jaqs,

One year old? Already? I'm having to fight back tears just typing this because the time has passed so quickly, and I know it's not slowing down any time soon. Sure, we've had some loooong days here and there, but you've morphed from my squishy newborn to a toddler at lightening speed.

We had a bit of a struggle to get you, so I have really tried to make it a point to enjoy every day, every stage, and every trying time just the same. There were times when I heard people complaining about this aspect of parenting or that one, and I would think to myself, "Do you KNOW how I would give absolutely ANYTHING to be up at night with a baby of my own?" That's not to say I don't do any complaining of my own, but I've tried to embrace that thought and remember it when I felt like I was at the end of my patience. I hope that God continues to remind me to do so because I know we will have hard times ahead, too. That's life.

Enough about that though because today is a reason for CELEBRATION! I remember your birth day like it was yesterday. I have never experienced so much emotion or a love so pure as the moment I saw you for the first time. You were perfect, and you still are in my eyes. I knew that I wanted to do everything right by you; I wanted to give you the world. I've done my best up to this point to pour love over you every single day, and I will continue to do so for the rest of my days. You are easy to love, baby girl.

I pray so many prayers for you, but most of all I pray that you will have an unshakeable relationship with our Heavenly Father because HE is the only One that will be able to give you all the desires of your heart. I know that's true because He gave me you AND your daddy. I also pray that He will guide us down this parenting path we're on, and that you will never once question the love we have for you. We're so, SO far from perfect parents, but I hope you always know that we're doing our very best.

Thank you, sweetie, for making me a mommy. You make me laugh every single day; you truly light up my world, and of course, you keep me on my toes!

I love your spirit. 

Your spunk is undeniable.

Your smile and giggles? Contagious.

Your cuddles are rare, but I treasure each one.

You will always be our angel baby, our Jaqsy Pea, our little love bug.

Happy FIRST birthday to you! Let's get this party started!

Love forever,

Mommy