Dear Jackson

Dear Jackson,

I'm finding it hard to believe that I am the Mother of an official toddler. I can't believe you have gone from an infant completely dependent on me and Dad to a boy who likes to figure things out himself.

I'm a little in shock that you, who once loved to do nothing but sleep in my arms, now like to pull everything out of my purse, take the trash out of the trash can, and look for adventures in my kitchen cupboards.

I'm a little amazed that you already have such a strong personality. My little drama King. The Pediatrician even agrees. And yes, we all know that you crave our 100% undivided attention.

I have absolutely loved dressing you up in every embarrassing outfit I could find, and taking advantage of any photo opportunity I could possibly come up with.

I'm a little bit in awe of all that you have accomplished in just 12 short months. You even have six teeth! That's a bit of a big deal in our family. And you better believe we brush them. With special baby toothpaste.

We have had so many fun adventures, and I am so looking forward to many, many more.

I'm flabbergasted that we used to go to playgroup so I could get more adult interaction. Now we go because you like to play with your friends. And because I still need more adult interaction.

I cherish the sweet moments we have had gazing into each other's eyes and cuddling on the couch and giggling together. I remember them often during the crazy moments when there is poop running down both sides of your legs, or when you hide my cell phone in the fridge, and then throw my camera in the toilet. My new camera is now waterproof.

But most of all I am so grateful Heavenly Father trusted me and your dad with your special spirit. I know you are a special son of God, and that He loves you. And oh, so do I Jackson.

I love pinching your sweet little legs and kissing those sweet chubby cheeks! 23 pounds of love! Your mega-watt smile, as I like to call it, completely and utterly melts my heart.

In other words, I can't believe my sweet Jackson Boy turned one last week!

Happy Birthday Sweet Boy!!!