A letter to my first born.

Dear Garrett,

Today is your first birthday. You're a year old! And what a year of adventures it's been.

I've been thinking back for the past couple days about what life was like a year ago, and all the emotions I was feeling.

I remember when I found out you were inside of me. I couldn't believe it was actually real. I think I stared at myself in the mirror for 5 minutes with my mouth hanging open, glancing down at the two pink lines every few seconds to see if one had faded.

I remember the day that I thought I lost you. It was the saddest morning of my life. And then a few hours later, seeing your tiny little heart beat at the doctors office. It quickly turned into the happiest day.

I remember worrying and wondering the rest of the pregnancy if you were going to stick around.

I remember when you were finally born. Feeling your warm little body on my chest. Wrapping my arms around you. Looking into those instantly curious eyes. Hearing your first cry. Saying, "Hi baby! You're here!"I remember taking you home from the hospital and realizing that I had no idea what to do next.I remember how quick you grew and changed and all the fun mile stones you've reached. You're first coo, smile, laugh, when you rolled over, your first taste of food, when you crawled, stood in your crib, finally cutting your first tooth a couple weeks ago, watching you stand on your own for the first time and hearing you squeal with excitement, and the early stages of taking your first steps.You're a pure joy to have around. You make me smile everyday. You make me laugh everyday. You make me worry everyday. And you make life happy everyday. You have a smile that makes even strangers happy.You're a beautiful boy inside and out.I love you more than you'll ever know.

Happy Birthday, Bubba.

Love, Mom