Connor's First Birthday

Today one year ago you were just hours away from being born. We'd been in the hospital since early the night before. Daddy and I were so excited to meet you that as soon as the contractions started we went right to the hospital...way too early. Thankfully we did, since I ended up having pre-eclampsia with you. You were born at 5:30 in the evening and you were absolutely perfect. So healthy. So handsome. Just the sweetest little bundle. I held you for the first time and knew life would never be the same. Our family became whole with you. So many things that had seemed important before were immediately rendered inconsequential compared to you.

Your dad and I had no idea what we were doing. We didn't even know how to put you in the car seat properly...the super young nurse's aid had to help us. You were pretty nice to us though. Just the calmest, sweetest little guy. All you wanted was to be held all the time and we were happy to oblige. We didn't sleep much this last year, but it was totally worth it. A lifetime of sleep deprivation is a price I would happily pay over and over again just to have you.

Now you're one year old. You're walking (and running?) everywhere. You have the funniest little personality. You're so curious and reserved. You reserve your smiles for only the funniest of jokes (daddy peak-a-boo), but have the best belly laugh when you are really enjoying yourself. You're feeding yourself - although if you had you're way you'd prefer a strict diet of toaster waffles and Gerber cheese puffs. Sorry honey, looks like you inherited momma's picky pallet.

We have so many hopes and dreams for you. Some more meaningful than others. I hope you love learning and reading. I hope you're creative and expressive. I hope you stand up for yourself and others. I hope you never have to be afraid. I hope you know mommy and daddy will always be there for you and will always love you no matter what. I hope you love the Lord and live your life according to that love. I hope you and your (future) siblings are the best of friends. I hope all your dreams come true. I hope you never have your heart broken. I hope you play soccer, but not football. I hope you don't drive too fast when you get your drivers license. I hope you don't sag your jeans. I hope you go to U.W. so you can stay close to home and be a Husky...I mostly hope you aren't a Cougar cause the drive to Pullman sucks. I hope you live a very long and healthy life. I hope you, daddy, and I will always be close and that someday when you're all grown up that we can be friends too.

This first year with you has been the best year ever. I know this year will be just as sweet if not better. My life will never be the same because of you, and I couldn't be more grateful. I love you so much little buddy.

Mommy