My Baby Girl,

Words can hardly express my emotions leading up to your first birthday. My heart swells with pride for the sweet little girl you have become, but also yearns for time to stop moving so quickly. Just writing these few sentences has me tearing up, and I think of all emotions those tears are filled with.

Happiness. The greatest kind I have ever felt. There is nothing in this world that makes me happier than being your mom.

Joy at watching you learn and grow each day. Witnessing all of your milestones this year has been so special.

Pride at the little person you are becoming. I am so proud that I get to be the mom of this amazing little girl who I know will do great things in this world.

Desperation for time to slow down. While I am so thankful that you are a healthy, growing little girl, I am not ready to give up your baby stage yet. I am trying to savor every last minute of it!

Guilt of wondering if I have made the right decisions, if I could have done things differently, if I have been there enough.

Excitement for the future. Seeing your personality emerge more and more each day is so fun. I wonder what your interests and hobbies will be, what you will be like with your friends, what your job will be. I just can't wait to share in all parts of your life.

Love. A mother's love is the most amazing thing, and you will not fully understand it until you have a baby of your own. Until then, just know this: that my love for you is endless, there is nothing you could do or say that will change how much I love you. I love you forever, no matter what.

Happy birthday, Baby Girl! You're One!

Love, Mama