Happy first birthday! I have enjoyed watching you learn and grow, and watching your personality develop. You are the most determined one year old I have ever met. There is nothing that can stand in your way when there is something you want. You have a way of letting me know exactly what you want or need, and sometimes I am sure that you have invented a language that only I understand. I also love that you understand me too. I can give you simple instructions, or sometimes even just a look, and you seem to know what I'm asking of you.
You have been very observant over this past year. You see what we do, and you are so confident in yourself that you try to do it too. I always laugh when you pick up our shoes and drag them back into our closets without being prompted. I love how you have started to fold your arms when we pray. And I especially enjoy one on one time with you because you imitate the things that I try to teach you so well.
You have also observed other children. I have seen you stand on your own when around other small children, maybe to be like them, and maybe because you want to be able to do it too. Please continue to observe and imitate. You will learn so much by following the example of others. But Philip I pray for you that you will be able to easily distinguish the good examples and the bad. Please try to keep quality friends so that the examples you are imitating will be good.
Philip so far you have gone through life with no fear. You dive off my lap to get to the floor knowing that I will always catch you. I may not always be able to catch you, but please trust yourself as you grow. Know that you are capable. Continue to try new things. And above all continue to live without fear.
I can tell that you will keep me on my toes. I already chase you around our home, and you aren't even walking yet. I hope that you keep running and exploring. Learn through this joy, Philip. Don't let anyone slow you down.
I love you so much. You have been the perfect addition to our quiet family. I am so grateful to our Heavenly Father for seeing us fit to raise you. As much as you need us to teach you, we need you to brighten us. Thank you for your smile every day. Thank you for your loud hysterical laughter. Thank you for igniting a spark within us.
Love,
Mommy
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