Julia || O N E YEAR

Julia,

My sweet little lady.

Last night I put you to bed as a one-year old. And, it completely overwhelms me.

Perhaps it's because you're such a little thing. Or maybe it's because I'm quite certain you will be our last baby.  But, whatever the reason, you turning one has hit me oh so hard. 

In the last year you've grown into the sweetest thing. Your laughter is contagious, and your smile can light up a room.

You're not walking just yet, but it's not far off. If you're offered a set of hands you will gladly hold on tight and try to walk around on the most wobbly legs. 

You're the quickest little crawler I ever did see, and the steps are by far your favorite obstacle. Cruising the furniture is also a favorite, and you've newly discovered that you can climb up onto couches and chairs. 

 Sleeping through the night is yet to be mastered. But, we've made improvements. There have even been a few nights where you've slept soundly till morning.

Food is your love language. There's not much you won't eat, or at least try. 

Snacks and mealtimes are your favorite, and you'll gladly sit in your chair and munch away for what seems like hours at a time. 

We're still nursing. I thought by your birthday we'd start weaning, but it's not something I'm quite ready to let go of. 

Your brother is your sun and moon. There isn't a moment that passes that you don't seek to be near him. Whatever Marcus is doing you want to do. Wherever Marcus is, you're not too far.

 Marcus has the ability to make you laugh and giggle and smile unlike anyone else. 

 I hope and pray with all my might your sibling bond remains this sweet and strong forever. 

You are the apple of your daddy's eye. Those strong arms of his will always be the safest ones to hold you.

 There's so much I want to write, but I'm at a loss. It's such a bittersweet thing to watch you grow, and it's nearly impossible to accurately describe how wonderful you are with a handful of words.

This last year has been a such fabulous ride. I can't wait to see what the future has in store for you. 

Peanut, you're sweet and sassy, spunky and mischievous. You are dramatic and sensitive, snuggly and fiercely working on doing things your way. You are simply and most amazingly you.

 Sweet little lady, thank you so much for bringing us such joy. Thank you for lighting our lives. Thank you for completing our family.

Happy First Birthday, Julia!

I love you to the moon and back. Twice.

Love, Mommy

Stats

Height :: 29.5 inches (70th percentile)

Weight :: 18.11 pounds (20th percentile) - you've done so well the past few months putting weight back on! I was worried as you slipped from 90th percent at weight to just the 5th percent a few months ago. Your love of food has done you well.

Teeth :: 8!

Clothes :: You're all over the board. Sometimes you'll fit just nicely into 6-9 month items (mainly shorts, pants, dresses), while other times you fill out 12-18 month items.

Diapers :: Pampers size 3.