5/30 I want.

Malone had 4 first birthday parties due to the fact that we have family and friends spread from here Cape Cod to IL. He had 1 party in IL, 1 party with friends and family here in the valley, 1 big group party with all of his little friends who are also turning 1 this summer, and 1 party on the Cape with our Cape family.

We started a tradition of having guests sign a children's book. The book we choose for this year was Dr. Suess's Happy Birthday To You.

Below is part of my birthday letter to Malone.

You have taught me so much this pat year. You have grown from a 7 pound 11 ounce newborn into a 23 pound tike. I've grown into the person I have always wanted to be, a mom. Your mom. I want you to know that I have done my very best to savor our first year together.

We have spent a lot of time together looking face to face as you nursed. We have witnessed one of God's greatest gifts- the sunrise. There were nights you had to be held and rocked because you were sick. I held you close, listening to your every breath and just felt so thankful and happy that you are mine (and Daddy's).

The love I feel for you makes my heart tingle- it is stronger than the rays of the sun and deeper than the deepest part of the ocean. I never knew this love existed until I had you. (I love your Daddy very much, but it is a different kind of love).

There are so many things I want for you, poodle pie and at times I get overwhelmed just thinking about it. As your mom there is so much on my shoulders to make sure you get everything you need.

I want for you to grow up respecting others and seeing the opportunity you have to learn from those who are different.

I want for you to value education and to care about the world.

I want for you to know what it feels like to truly be part of a community and to be a good community member.

I want for you to know how to make good financial decisions and to own your own home.

I want for you to savor life and to see the beauty in simplicity.

I want you to know that you'll be okay when/if the love of your life breaks your heart.

I want for you to know that Dad and I will always be here for you and I want you to feel safe talking to us.

I want you to remember your roots and spend time learning your family history from your elders.

I want you to know how to be a good friend.

I want you to know the satisfaction of a job well done.

I want you to travel and experience as much of the world as you can.

I want you to be open to trying new things.

I want you to find a meaningful way to give back- remember that saving the world starts in your own back yard.

I want you to taste the goodness that is local produce and a perfectly grilled steak.

I want you to love, to love deeply, and to love with your whole heart.

As your Mommy, I will do my best to help you discover and grow. I promise to teach you all that I know. I will give you as many experiences and opportunities as I can to help you grow into the man I want you to be. I will try my hardest to nurture your interests and foster your talents. In the words of Abe Lincoln, "Whatever you are, be a good one."

I love you my little snuggle puppy.
Happy First Birthday.

Love,
Mommy