A year ago today ...

Dear Sweet Baby Abigail,

I am writing this letter on the eve of your first birthday and I simply cannot believe you are turning one tomorrow. A year ago you came into this world and completely changed the way I view the world ... and life. There wasn't a moment in my life where I was as proud as I was the day I met you. You were amazing from the start, but each day I love you more and more. I didn't think that would be possible, but with every smile, laugh, touch of your small hand, my heart falls more in love with you ... over and over again. I knew there would be nothing like a mother's love for her child, but I had no idea it would be and could be this strong.

Abby Grace, as you turn one, I'm so happy and excited about the road ahead of us and all the possibilities that life may bring. I must admit I'm saddened at the same thought of you turning one. As I type this, I'm watching you on the monitor and I can't help but look at how tall you've gotten. How big you've become. That little teeny baby that laid there a year ago is now a toddler resting and waiting to explore the world again tomorrow. Where did the time go? All I know is that the time spent this past year has been the best year of my life. I'm so thankful that God has given me the best gift of all. Nothing could ever come close to how it feels to be your Mommy. I love you sweet baby girl!

Love,

Mommy

Those teeny, little baby feet have turned into

walking feet ready to explore the world.

Sweet Abby Grace, at 12 months old (a year!) you are:

* crawling super fast, turbo speed

* cruising along furniture

* taking 5 or 6 steps at a time

* standing alone

* pulling up on everything and attempting to climb on everything

* saying "Da-Da", "Hi" and (finally) saying "Ma-Ma"

* trying to say words like "bird", "fish", "book" and "cheese"

* pointing to nose when asked "Where's Mommy's nose?"

* mimicking hand gestures and head motions

(arms up, shaking head up and down and side to side)

* "playing" shy by covering your eyes and turning into someone's

shoulder (You are NOT shy!)

* singing and reading books (making sounds and babbles quietly as if

really doing it)

* almost blowing kisses... so close!

* know that shoes go on your feet

* still have dance moves better than your Mama

* wearing size 4 diapers

* drinking 4 bottles a day (still formula .. changing to milk this month,

usually 6-8oz. morning/night and 4-6 oz. daytime)

* eating solids 3 times a day, more table foods now

* Favorite foods: macaroni and cheese, potatoes, yogurt, applesauce,

watermelon

* napping twice a day and sleeping 11 - 12 hours at night

* Everyone get ready ... drum roll please ... car rides are getting better!!