Happy 1st Birthday Gracie!

Gracie,

We adore your smiles and laughs, your hugs and kisses, your sweet little voice when you point and say, "isss?" (what's this).

We love that you greet us with arms stretched out and palms facing up, just like we did when you were learning to walk.

We can't wait for the daily challenge of making it through a meal or a car ride, without your protests and tears.

We have grown accustomed to and even ever-so-slightly enjoy waking up several times every night when you cry out for food or cuddles.

Our hearts and our patience have expanded exponentially since you were born.

We look forward to watching you grow up, teaching you all the little things that you seem to pick up so quickly, and sharing with you all of the wonderful things life has to offer.

We know the day will come when you don't need us quite so much. But for now we'll continue to cherish every second we spend with you, knowing that you need us...and no matter what, you will forever be our little girl.

We cannot ever put into words how much you've taught us in 12 short months, how much our beliefs, outlook on life, and goals have changed, and we will never be able to show you just how much we love you.

But we hope you always know that you are our world and our life...and we are so thankful god gave you to us.

Love you, bunches...

Mommy and Daddy