Happy First Birthday Gabe

August 22, 2005, the day you stole my heart.

Dear Gabe,

I can't believe this day is here. And although we celebrate and thank God for our first year with you, I can't help but feel a little nagging deep in the back of my heart.

Because your first birthday means you're growing up. And it won't be long until I watch you get on that school bus to go to kindergarten, or watch you score your first soccer goal, or go on your first date, or graduate from high school, or see you waiting at the alter for your bride to walk down. Those things seem like an eternity away... but time passes so quickly. And when those days come, I'll look back at this day & say, "It seems like just yesterday we were celebrating your first birthday...."

I thank God so much for deciding that we should be blessed to be your parents. You've added so much to our family. You've given Mommy & Daddy a little boy to love and you've given Sissy a Bubby to love and grow up with. You're such a tough little boy but yet so sensitive. Your feelings are fragile and you have so much love. You are a cuddler and give hugs and kisses. But watch out if someone stands in your way.

A month ago you started walking. And last week you got your first tooth. You love to eat almost as much as you love to play. You're a Momma's Boy. Some people say you look like Daddy & some say Mommy. You remind Mommy of Papa & definitely have his height.

Mommy has so much fun watching you grow up. You really are a joy. You are happy everyday & seem to enjoy life. I hope you'll always have such an attitude.

Today my prayer is that your years ahead will always be this happy and healthy. Mostly, that you'll grow to be a man of God and know firsthand His love. I already pray that your life will be as it's intended and that you'll be blessed enough to one day know the love and happiness that your Daddy & I feel each day.

Happy First Birthday to my Baby Boy.

Love,

Mommy