Dear Cora,

 

Today you are ONE!  This time last year, your Dada was rushing back from a playoff game at Nuevo Laredo to San Antonio to be with me.  You took your sweet time coming into the world, but now that you’re here you’ve been nothing but a whirlwind of joy, laughter, and energy.

 

Lots of people say that their children light up their lives, but that doesn’t even seem to cover it with you.  Because of you, my life is brighter, but it’s also more sweet, warm, precious, I could go on and on.  We have traveled all over the world with you, to see family and to see your Dada play basketball, and every moment has been more special because you’re a part of it.  You are walking, almost running, laughing, talking, and learning how to express your personality more and more every day.

 

You love bubbles, dogs, and watching other young children playing.  Your Dada can make you laugh harder than anyone.  You have two sets of grandparents that love you more than anything, and Aunts and Uncles galore that just love to spoil you to pieces.  Everyone who meets you comments on how tall you are, how much hair you have, and how big and beautiful your eyes are.  You have your Dada’s warm skin tone and his eyes.  Your little pot belly leads wherever you go, and these days you are going all. the. time.

 

The first birthday is a big one for you, but it’s also a celebration of our first year as parents.  I thought your Dada and I were pretty mature, but you’ve helped us to grow up even more.  Because of you, we are a true family now, and that has deepened our feelings of love, commitment, and trust in one another.  Thank you for making me a mom.  I hope I’m doing the job justice.

 

There are no words to properly sum up this entire year, so here’s a video I hope you’ll be able to watch some day and enjoy the memories as much as we have.  I know every parents thinks their child is perfect, but you really are.  You win.  You are the smartest, prettiest, funniest, most clever, most inspiring baby ever. In the history of the world.  I love you more than I have loved anyone in the entire world, and you make me happier than anyone ever has, possibly with the exception of your Dada.  I hope you always know that, and though this birthday is the first of many, it will always have a special place in my heart.

 

Love,

Mama