On the Occasion of Abigail Frances's First Birthday

My Dearest Abigail-

Today you are 1.  365 days.  52 weeks.  12 months.  Where did this first year go?  I am not sure I will ever know the answer to that question, but what I do know is that I love you more than anything.   And this last year, that has flown by, has been so wonderful and amazing because you were a part of it.  

One year ago when they put you in my arms I knew that my life would forever be changed.  There were some rough days (and nights) in the beginning.  But slowly we got acquainted with one another and our understanding of one another began to blossom.  And over the past year I have loved you more than I ever knew it was possible to love another human.  

This last year a lot of thoughts have been rolling around in my mind and I want to get them down...as I know that there will be days ahead of us when we don't really like each other that much.  When we get to those days, I want you to read this and I will too.  I will be reminded of what I want for you, for us, and for our family.  So, here goes...

I promise to never talk at you, but to talk to you.  I promise not to just listen to you, but to hear you as well.   I promise to be your mother first and your friend second.  I promise to laugh with you - often.  I promise to always believe in you and your dreams and will support you in your quest to achieve them.  I promise to love you.  No matter what.

Abigail, you are my shining star and my reason for living.  You are the single most important thing to both your dad and me.  Together, as a family we will explore the world around us and show you how to love truly, honestly, and forever.   We will show you what it is to be committed and to put forth your best every day.  

My wish for you, for all the days of your life, is to be a good person.  I hope that you will think of others first and treat everyone with kindness and respect.  Be sure to use your manners with everyone and always remember to appreciate the advice of your elders.  Sometimes it may seem to be silly advice, but it comes with good intentions.  

Abigail, I love you so much.  I love your daddy so much, too.  I cannot wait to see what our future, as a family, holds.  And your future; it is as bright as can be.  Take hold, little girl, and capture your future!  It is yours for the taking!  

I love you more than you will ever know.

All my love,

Mommy

PS - I also promise to blog more.  :0)

Happy First Birthday, Little Girl!