mia | one year

Dear Mia,

It has been one whole year that you've been alive, and what a year it has been. While the day of your birth was filled with confusion, sadness, and fear, it was also one of the happiest, best days of my life. After all, it was the day you came into our lives, and I'm so very, very glad you're here with us today.

You have a voracious appetite. You eat almost anything I put in front of you and you can, and do, out-eat your sister at every meal. Even with just two teeth, you manage to eat anything you can get your hands on, including stir fry with Kung Pao Sauce. But beyond your love of all things food-related, you have an appetite for life.

You are fearless when it comes to climbing things, and now that you can walk, you want to run. When we went to the beach last week, you weren't happy unless your feet were in the sand and waves. You wanted me to let you go, but the ocean would have swallowed you. You know what you want, and you aren't afraid to climb or throw a tantrum to get it. You like to carry things that are bigger and heavier than you are, and with much grunting and groaning, you have even managed to move furniture. You are busy, busy, busy. Just traveling from one mess to another all day long.

 

You love and admire your big sister, chasing her around the house and stealing her toys. You mimic her play and love to grab her hair.

I love your soft squishiness. You are getting toddler legs, but your arms and cheeks are made of marshmallow fluff. I love to kiss them and wish they would stay soft and squishy forever.

Your smile is infectious, it consumes your whole face, squishes up your eyes , and your cheeks swallow your nose. You gab all day long, no real words, but I'm pretty sure you think you are talking. You started shaking your head "No" this week. Obviously, I think it is super cute. Also, you can be really, really, really loud. Really loud.

You have amazing eyelashes and your hair is starting to curl. You still love your blanket. You bury your face in it when you are sleepy and you pull it over your head to play peek a boo. You love babies, especially your cousin Justin. You love dogs and cats, but are afraid of horses. I must do something about that. You light up when you see your daddy, but still want momma when you're tired.

I wish it were possible to remember everything about you at this age.  You are a special little girl, I can't imagine our family without you. I look forward to when you get bigger and I can tell you about your scars. I hope they will become reminders of how strong you are and help you through life.

We all love you so much. Yes, even Laci.

Much love,
Your Mommom