Dear Harrison

Dear Harrison,
Tomorrow you are going to be 1! This year has gone by so ridiculously fast - I feel like I have lived a whirlwind. To have waited for you for so long, and now it seems like time with you insists on moving twice as fast as it should. With that in mind, I wanted to share a few thoughts with you.
We had just almost given up any hope of having another baby when we found out that you were coming into our lives. There was so much joy, anxiety, anticipation, and delight. None of those feelings came close to what we truly felt at your arrival. There really aren't any words to describe it. You were so yearned for and then at 11:28, you were there.
I had never really thought about being the mom of a son. After Jillian was born, I assumed all we would have would be girls. Then I assumed there wouldn't be anymore. But a boy, you are! And one with an amazing personality of determination, stubbornness, love, and curiousity. You love open doors and things you know you shouldn't mess with. You love your sister. You snuggle! And I love it. You talk a lot, and you are learning to communicate better every day (not usually with words but with pointing and hand motions). You say, "Thank you" and it is one of the cutest things - ever!
We were given one of the two biggest gifts we have ever been given a year ago tomorrow. Our lives would have been incomplete without you. I might not understand the timing of your arrival, but I know that you were meant for us. You make us all smile. You make our hearts smile.
I cherish every moment with you. I hope that you have a fabulous day on your birthday - and the day after when we really party. I hope you will always know that your Mommy wants nothing more than the very best for you and that the privilege I have of being your mother is never lost on me.
Happy Birthday!

I love you,
Mommy