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April 05, 2005

Letter To My Little Girl

Dear Mo,

You're 1! I can hardly believe it. This past year has been incredible. I remember the day you came into this world. It was the most wonderful, magical day of my life. Seeing your beautiful face melted my heart in a way I could never imagine. And every day since your birthday has been an adventure.

I have to be honest...the first couple of months were rough. Even though you grew inside me for over 9 months (taking your sweet time to enter this world I might add), you felt like a complete stranger to me. For the first couple of months I struggled with getting to know and understand you (as much as a mother could understand a newborn that is). You were indifferent most of the time...sometimes you would cry and I could never figure out what was wrong. Usually, no one was able to comfort you. It was definitely a sign of what was to come!

After the 2 month mark, you started sleeping through the night. That milestone came because Daddy and I finally figured out two things: 1) soy formula was a necessity; and 2) the only way you would sleep was on your belly. The belly sleeping was scary because the fear of SIDS was drilled into my head. But you were able to move your head from side to side since birth, so eventually my fear subsided. That meant that Mommy and you were well rested every night - and that's a beautiful thing!

Then came the milestone of smiling and cooing. That was awesome. Hearing your voice was such a thrill. Daddy and I often imagined what it would be like when you said your first words. And then before we knew it, that day arrived. Your first word was momma, and I was so happy! Before I had a chance to really rub it into your father, you said Dada. Within 24 hours, you said your first 2 words! And it's been nothing but Dada and Daddeee ever since! You call everyone and everything Daddeee! I spell it that way because you really emphasize the "eeee" in Daddy in the most dramatic way! Then came "Deeee" for the dogs. You love Molly and Noel, despite the way they treat you! Molly tries to steal your food, bite you and growl at you - and most of the time, you giggle and laugh your little heart out. There's been a few times, though, that Molly has made you cry. But you are very quick to forget what Molly has done and within minutes you reach out for her to give a hug or pat on the head!

You started to become mobile around the 6 month mark. Many mornings we discovered you in the crib standing up and walking around the edge of the crib, reaching for your mobile, etc. You really scared me one day when I walked in and found you leaning outside of your crib as you attempted to untie the bumber pads! I still can't believe you didn't fall out!

You've been attempting to walk for such a long time that I still can't believe you're not walking on your own yet. You've taken a few steps on your own from time to time, and you've become very proficient at climbing the stairs - with more speed than me! But as soon as you realize you're standing on your own, you panic and fall to the floor. For some reason, you're afraid to walk alone. This is unusual for you because you do not appear to be afraid of anything else.

The following traits sum you up in a nutshell:

1. You are fiercely independent. You rarely like to be held because it interferes with your ability to explore and play! Cuddle time is only reserved for when you're tired!

2. You are a social butterfly! You will do anything you can to capture the attention of a stranger, and most of the time, it works like a charm! No matter where we go, you're always talking and flirting with someone!! And you love to play with other kids. Unfortunately, you haven't been exposed to many other kids your age. But that doesn't stop you! You'll play with anyone who will join you!

3. You are a very happy little girl, not to mention a load of fun. You love to laugh and giggle. You love to play peek-a-boo. You like to make all kinds of funny noises - and most of the time, you make yourself laugh! You are quite entertaining to say the least!

4. You love to sleep. Amen for that. Daddy jokes that you have Mommy's coma genes, and I think he's right. We never have a problem putting you to bed at night, and if we don't put you down for a nap when you're tired, you'll just fall asleep wherever you are. You have fallen asleep in various places such as on the floor in the midst of your toys, in your highchair, sitting up in your playpen, etc.

5. You are strong-willed, just like your Mommy! When you want something, you will not stop until you get it. And if you don't get your way, watch out. You definitely have a temper!

Overall, you are an absolute joy. You are the most beautiful, wonderful little girl, and I am so happy that you came into my life. Words cannot express how much I love and adore you! Thank you for a wonderful first year, and I look forward to the many years ahead!

Love,
Mommy

Posted by monkeygirl at April 5, 2005 09:55 PM