Dear Baby Griffin,
Baby...people are telling me you aren't a baby anymore...you're a toddler! Mommy isn't ready for that yet. In fact, I feel a little foolish because Grandma B. says that since the day you were born, I've been "wishing your life away" because I kept saying, "I can't wait for him to do this." "I can't wait for him to do that." But really, I was just excited to watch you grow and learn new things. But as Mom's always are, your Grandma was right. This year went by way too fast. I still remember the day we found out I was pregnant with you and as soon as it was confirmed I jumped up and down about 5 times into your Daddy's arms and typical of your Daddy, always worrying, told me to stop jumping up and down, that I was going to hurt you :-) Once you were born, it took Mommy about 3 weeks to really get into the swing of Mommyhood. But you were gentle, and loving, and easy going. My favorite times were when we would sleep on that old green leather couch, covered in a sheet, because it was SO dang hot in our tiny apartment, especially with you laying on top of me. Sweaty or not....those moments are what I waited 9 months for. Every day since then has been an adventure. Learning how to roll over, sit up, stand up, crawl, and taking your first steps. Each new milestone is more exciting than the last. You love to be loved on. Even though you are on the move, you are perfectly content with someone holding you....all the time :-) You are brave, but cautious...just like your Daddy. This is one characteristic I hope you never lose. It will allow you the chance to do great things in life. You demand attention...like your Mommy :-) You're funny. You really are! And at such a young age...it's a very promising thing. If you can make a girl laugh, you're set for life buddy :-) After all, your Daddy didn't win me over with his good looks ;-) (Just kidding, Bri) Your Daddy always says, I wish we could just get a glimpse of what kind of person he's going to be, what path he's going to choose in life. I have an endless amount of hopes and wishes for you, little man. I want you to be strong and brave, but sensitive. I want you to be passionate about something. I don't care if it's football or music or dancing. I just want you to do what you love in life, regardless of what other people think or how much it pays. I want you to be happy and I want you to make others happy just by being you. Have your own opinions but respect other peoples. Believe in God. Bad things happen, especially to good people, so....just believe in God. Mama and Daddy will protect you from most of the world's harm, but there is going to come a time when it's your turn to find out what this world has to offer. Be aware that there are consequences to every action you take. Find someone to love. A good person, deserving of your love. Someone who will laugh at your jokes, even if they aren't funny. Someone who can take care of you when your sick. Someone YOU can take care of too. The world is a lonely place and there is no greater feeling than being in love. Love your life, regardless of its hardships. Always remember that you are loved. Whether you are near or far, you have a home filled with love, just for you, to come home to.
Happy FIRST Birthday, to you, Little Man!!
Love Always,
Mama
