On your first birthday

(Yes, this post is 2 daus late but we were swamped with his big birthday celebration - pictures to come soon of the party).

My little man,

Today is your first birthday.  One year ago today I held you in my arms for the first time.  I looked at your little face and fell madly in love.  It didn't feel like this whole life shifting moment, it felt like everything was exactly as it should be, it felt normal and right and perfect.  Your daddy spent a long time with you down in the nursery while they cleaned you up; shielding your little eyes from the harsh heat lamps to keep you warm (all the while knowing if they'd just give you back to your mommy you'd be warm enough).  Grandpa Hamel took video for 45 min. of Daddy just standing there so you wouldn't be alone like most of the other little babies.

Over the past 12 months you've mastered sitting up, rolling over, crawling, standing, walking and running.  You've shown us your love for books, Blue's Clues, balls, airplanes, birds, oranges, and your best friend Kanga.  It's amazing to see your own individual personality come out as you discover what you like and dislike.  Especially this past week we've seen you really turn into a little person.  You are a sweet, loving, energetic little man who loves to sing and clap and smile and give kisses.

As we see the end of your first year of life and start another, we pray that you will continue to grow, not only in size but in character.  We pray that you will somehow avoid having to learn things the hard way; that you will be protected from the corruption of this world while still being sensitive to those around you and a light in the darkness.  You'll be able to do that not because we're great parents but because you know Christ.  Which brings us to the most earnest prayer of your Daddy's and my hearts; that somehow we can reflect Him to you so that even in your young age you can understand just how much God loves and cares for you.  That in our imperfect parenting you will see a glimpse of His perfect Fatherhood.  That in our imperfect love you will see how much better is His perfect love.  That you will know Him, and know that He knows you fully.