Dearest Bri,

My goodness. How in the world are you one year old? So much has transpired in such a short time that it’s hard for me to put into words how you have become such a part of me over the past year. First, you have such a wonderful spirit. You love animals. Poor Nutmeg the cat spends most days running from you but you get so much joy by seeing that kitty. You squeal in delight everytime you get close and the times I hold you close enough to pet Nutmeg, you get a huge smile and you kick your little legs back and forth with a rush of excitement.

I love that energy. You laugh at things out of the blue. You love anything soft and sometimes I’ll catch you burying your face into a blanket or a soft stuffed animal and you giggle with glee. Along with that energy though, my little Sweet Pea, comes a temper that flares up whenever you don’t get what you want. It’s hard not to laugh as you throw your temper tantrums. You are so serious but so cute at the same time. Soon, you move on and are back to your usual happy self.

You and I have a bond, little girl, that came about from your early morning wake-ups. We used to spend lots of time cuddling in the early morning hours. You’d curl up in my arms and we’d keep each other warm while talking softly in the emerging light. It is one of my favorite memories of you and one I’ll cherish as you blossom from a cute little baby to a beautiful woman.

Your capacity to love amazes me Little One. I get so much joy from your kisses that you love to plant on my cheek. I love them so much that I don’t even mind when you accidently bite me with your four little teeth. I’m not the only one you kiss though. You give mommy kisses, of course, and you try with all your might to kiss Nutmeg, but I my heart swells with love and pride everytime you lean over to kiss your brother. I cannot believe I love you so much.

I’ll always love you, Baby Swee’Pea. For so long I wanted you. And now that I have you I cannot stop gazing at your beautiful face with awe and wonder how I could help create something so perfect. I wouldn’t change a thing about you. I love your smile, your laugh, your cute little pout and even the way you smell. I love nuzzling your face and feeling your soft skin next to my cheek. I can’t help but shower kisses on your chubby little cheeks whenever you’re in my arms – even when you’ve been a little naughty. I’m going to have to work on that.

Thank you for coming into my life. I’m certain an angel guided you to me because you are the answer to my prayers. You and your brother arrived into my life and now there’s no other life I’d rather live. You are my heart and soul and I thank you for making my life so complete.

Happy first birthday my little Swee’ Pea. Your Daddy loves you.

Always,
Daddy.