a year and a few days

Dear Cole,

Happy birthday to my sweet baby boy! Never in my life has so much happened in one year. It is a pleasure to spend each day with you as you grow and explore. I am sorry that I have been very tired on some days,and I thank you for the energy that you bring to each morning because you power us both sometimes. And I'm grateful to you for the naps because you've encouraged me to rest too, and that's something that doesn't come easily to me. You remind me that life can be simple, and that good things happen if we just eat when we're hungry, sleep when we're tired, smile when we're happy, and cry when we're sad.

In the past year, not a day has gone by when I haven't said the word poop. That might sound funny or gross to some, but other parents will just smile and nod. Someday I hope you'll understand the humor in that statement. There have been some tough times this year, and all three of us have proven that we're stronger than we thought. When we both had the flu last Christmas, I had to take your temperature in that most unpleasant way, and worse yet, hold you as the nurses poked you with needles while searching for a vein. Your dad was so sad to see us both sick and to spend the holiday in the hospital, but you recovered quickly and cheered us up.

I love sharing your discoveries and "firsts." Your first laugh was as clear as a bell and brought beaming smiles to me and your dad. Your laughter is still the most beautiful sound in the whole word to us, and we'll do pratfalls all day long just to hear you giggle. Today you've decided to add high pitched squealsto your giggles and I love that you obviously have your own sense of humor.

Your smiles are just as magical, and while I miss your gummy grin, I'm now just as in love with your 6-toothed smile. You have a new smile when you are running. You throw your head back and run with your mouth open and that's my current favorite smile.

You've also finally learned to nod "yes" after months of the "no, no" shake. Your "yes" is an exaggerated nod and you usually do it while walking. It appears you're having a very animated conversation with yourself. And while you're not saying real words yet, you do make a sound like "essss." You also say something that sounds like "what's this?" and "this" while pointing.

You play games that no one has taught you, games you've made up on your own. Our favorite is "where's Cole?". You "hide" behind me waiting for me to call for you. Sometimes you run around and laugh, other times you hug my back and squeal.

You are generous with your laughter and smiles and you make everyone around you happier. You are my joy and I love you very much.

Happy Birthday,
Maba