A Letter

December 14, 2005

Dear Isaac,

One year ago today... after much anticipation, you were born. We were extremely happy and anxious to meet you because we had hoped to become parents for a very long time. Mommy was nine days overdue and had to be induced. We joked that you didn't want to come out of her tummy because it was so cold outside.

At the hospital, we were very nervous about the c-section surgery... hearing you cry for the first time was a wonderful relief! We both cried as well~ happy tears. We were just so overwhelmed with happiness that you were finally here and just as healthy as can be!

You've grown so much throughout this first year of your life. It's exciting to watch you reach your milestones like rolling over, crawling, and standing up. You've always been a very inquisitive little boy~ studying toys and how they work from the very beginning. It's so cool to see you learn as we teach you to do new things and watch you learn on your own as well. One of your favorite things to do with is to to read with mommy and daddy. Both of us love when you crawl over to us with a book in your hand, ready to cuddle in one of our laps for a story.

One of daddys' favorite memories is of you calling him "da da" for the first time. It was right in time for his first Father's Day! He loves the "welcome home parties" you throw for him when he comes home from work each day. He beams as he watches you smile and wave your arms in excitment. The two of you have had tons of fun this past year with all the tickling and tossing around he does with you. You squeal with delight as you rough-house with your daddy.

Mommy enjoys spending her days with you~ she couldn't wait to be a mommy and loves spoiling you to pieces. It would be impossible to keep track of all the kisses she gives you all day long. While she wishes you were a better napper, she wouldn't trade you for the world. One of her favorite memories is holding you as a newborn in her arms with your face towards her. Your whole face would light up as she sang to you and you brought her so much happiness. You still love to dance and sing with mommy! More recently, she loves to play peekaboo with you as you hide in the living room curtains. Your laughter is contagious!

As first time parents, we've learned a lot in the last year. We're proud of how well your first year has gone. You're a very cute baby who loves to give hugs. Have you mentioned how special you are? We're not the only ones who think so! You have many grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who adore you as well. You are indeed loved by many.

We hope your next year of life is as exciting as your first. It will bring new and exciting challenges and joys. You are a wonderful little boy who is growing up and changing quickly. We remember when all you would do was sleep all day long and now you're busy as can be, crawling and climbing to get into everything. You definitely keep us on our toes!

May you always know how deeply you were wanted, Isaac. Our family of three is so happy with you as a part of it. You are truly a blessing and we can't imagine life without you. We love you so much!!

Happy 1st Birthday, sweet boy!

Love always,
Mommy & Daddy

~~~ P.S. to family and friends who would like to leave a special birthday message to Isaac: You can leave a message here in the comment section for him or email us. I will be printing this letter and the messages for his scrapbook. :)