Just One Year of Love

Well, Cookie, it's hard to believe, but today you have survived a full year of this crazy world.

I don't see you nearly as often as I would like (we've got to work on your momma and daddy about moving down here!), but everytime I do, you amaze me.

The last time I saw you, you were still clutching something for support as you took tentative steps. Now, you won't sit still! You circle the house, stealing keys, remotes, mobile phones and shoes as you go.

It's a miracle you're as active as you are. I keep remembering back to the day we brought you home and we couldn't keep you awake! You were quite content to just stay in one position for hours, sleeping your life away. It was easy to cuddle you back then. Now, you have too many nooks and crannies to inspect to be hindered by lap time!

You're still the most beautiful little girl ever. I love your rosy cheeks and love it that your hair is getting all filled in and long. You look pretty in pink, much to your daddy's chagrin.

You have such a funny personality. You are so incredibly stubborn. Not that you could be any other way, with the parents you have. You act quite coy and then suddenly will just wig out! It's like you can't just contain the smile on your face and it has to spread from head to toe, the joy making you shake all over. And then it's back to the walkin' business.

My favorite thing about you, Sophia, is the way you seem to remember me. No matter how long it's been since I've seen you, when I walk in the door, you're not scared of or hesitant to come to me. That big smile you give me right off the bat is always the best part of seeing you.

You have a big year ahead of you. You've got teeth coming in and words to learn. Not to mention, you're going to be a big sister!

No worries, though. As always, you'll be brilliant!

Happy Birthday, Sophia!

Heart,
Aunt Bee