Birthday Girl---Gillian Grace is ONE!

Dear Gillian Grace,
Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday to you!

Happy Birthday, dear GG!
Happy Birthday to you!

In just a few short hours, at 12:45 p.m., you will officially turn one! As hard as it is for me to believe that a year has come and gone so quickly, it is even more inconceivable for me to imagine our life before you were a part of it. It seems that you've always been with us, and having you as our daughter has given our lives new meaning and filled it with purpose.



While each day is better and more exciting than the one before, it's sometimes hard not to miss the low-key early days where cuddling you for hours was the day's only accomplishment. It seems like only yesterday you were learning to roll over on your own and now, all these months later, you're quite the little steamroller, running over anything in your path.



For twelve months, we have watched in awe as you've grown and changed. No matter the milestone or achievement, your dad and I couldn't be more proud. And though nothing makes us happier than to see you learn and grow, part of me wishes I could keep you a baby for just a little while longer.



I like to think you were born with a smile on your face and have been smiling ever since. Nowadays your laughter echos throughout our house and your non-stop babble fills any silence. You are the happiest baby I know!



It's your birthday, but yet it is everyone that has been blessed with the opportunity to share in your life that has been given a true gift. To know you is to love you and I can't imagine loving you more. As excited as we are for the months and years ahead, your dad and I are simply content here in the present, savoring each precious moment with you!



Happy Birthday, Gillybean!

We love you bigger than the sky,
Mommy



12 Month Stats

Height: unknown (Check-up tomorrow)

Weight: 25 pounds? (8 lbs. 5 oz. at birth)

Food: You’re now exclusively on table food. You favorites include grilled cheese, cheese quesadillas, and cheese toast. Anyone see a trend? You love cheese anything!!! You also like noodles, pickles, and crackers, but not all at the same time! Applesauce and yogurt are your favorite desserts and you love it when I sprinkle cinnamon sugar on buttered bread or apples.

Words: Mama, Da-da, Baba (bottle), no-no-no, bah (bath), ga-ga-ga (Gammie)

Activities: walking, running, dancing, climbing, hiding

Clothes: some 18 month, mostly 24 month

Diaper: size 4 during the day, size 5 at night

What we're working on: We're still learning to use a sippy cup. Though we've tried a hundred different brands, and I've seen you drink from it several times, you just aren't that interested. I'm hoping the upcoming transition from formula to milk will help with the sippy cup switcheroo!



{I'll be posting party details and pictures all week, but since today is our sweet girl's special day, I just had to do this post first!}