First birthdays seem to be a production nowadays, elaborate parties for many families that require lots of planning and money. I am guilty of trying to do the same, my son’s birthday is coming up and I got wrapped in the party and not the actual reason why we are celebrating. We are supposed to be celebrating his first year of life. That is an incredible accomplishment, as parents we were successful at raising a newborn baby to a full grown toddler. Doesn’t matter if it’s your first child or fifth, no child is the same and each one should be celebrated.
I was contemplating what to get my son for his first birthday and nothing I researched seemed to be good enough. A first birthday in my eyes means celebrating a year of life with loved ones all around. So instead I decided to do something that will last longer than any toy, I will write him a love letter from me. Something he can read and look back on when he gets older and think of me and hopefully appreciate and understand more about me and life. I hope to continue this tradition every year, it will give me the opportunity to reflect on the past year of his life and hopefully give me the chance to impart my wisdom to him in a loving way. Here is my letter, it is written with love and an open heart and I hope it lets every child understand and see the unconditional love that a mother has for her child.
To my son,
I can’t believe it’s been a year, I’ve been a mom for 365 days. This has been the wildest year of my life and I can’t wait for more. The tears, pain and sleepless nights have all been worth it. The laughter, smiles and those gazes that you give me melt my heart and make me glad that I’m your mom. This is the best job in the world. I wouldn’t trade it for anything. You make my life full of purpose and reason and I look forward to seeing you grow up and experience life.
Just remember that you are loved no matter what. The world will throw you hardships, but remember family and faith is all that you need. Be kind to everyone you meet, be patient to those who don’t understand and give love to all you encounter. Your mistakes aren’t there to put you down, they are there to help you grow and challenge you to do better.
Life is a challenge but don’t be afraid to take risks and go down the unbeaten path. Life is too short not to have an adventure. So explore and do the unexpected.
Being your mom has been the greatest honor and I hope I do my best everyday to love you as much as I can. I will try to teach you all that I know about the world, but I hope you can teach me how to live in the present and enjoy the small moments in life. You are my first born, my little boy forever. I will always take care of you and watch over you anywhere I am.
I love you and Happy First Birthday!
Love,
Your Mom
