One year ago today...

...I held you in my arms for the very first time as tears of joy ran down my face. I couldn't believe you were finally here, and it was amazing to finally look into your little face. So many hopes and dreams I had for you, from the very first moment. I treasured all the newborn moments because I knew how quickly they would pass. Being able to cradle you with just one arm as I walked around the house. Snuggling with you in the sling as we walked around the farmers' market. The little "snuffling" sounds you made in your bassinet next to me just before you woke up. The tiny little baby cry that disappeared before long. How you drank like a starving baby every time you woke to eat. Snuggling in Mommy & Daddy's bed in the morning. Afternoon naps together. The first time you smiled at me...all moments I will treasure forever. Before long, you were very interested in everyone around you, especially your big brother. You always saved your special smiles for him. It seemed like just minutes when you started grabbing toys and rolling over. And before we knew it, you were crawling and pulling yourself up. How quickly time passed!

Now you are one year old, and you continue to amaze me. You are such your own person now, and you are learning so much every day. It is so exciting to watch you grow and discover the world around you!

I love you, Matty, more than you could ever imagine!

Love,

Mommy