Dear Monkey Boy,

One year ago this morning you arrived and our lives have not been the same.  I spent 50+ long hours with your mommy and daddy while we waited for you to show up for the party!  When it became clear that you were not going to arrive in typical fashion, plans were made for a different birth.  I kissed my sister, your mommy, and held back tears as they wheeled her away.  It was hard, because I knew it meant that soon I would get to meet you, but I had to trust the doctors with my sister.  My baby sister.  The one I prayed for as a little girl.  My answered prayer.  So I sat in a room with Grandma and Grandpa and prayed.  Finally a picture popped up on my cell phone.  There you were!

Love. At first sight.  You look like your daddy.  You have your mamma’s smile.  100% adorable!

I only was able to meet you for a few brief minutes because you spent a little bit of time in NICU.  After I knew you were ok and that your mommy and daddy were ok, I went home.  And slept.  And slept.  And slept.

A few days later I was able to hold you for the first time.  Such a bundle of love.  Your daddy was beaming.

I can’t believe you are ONE!  Where did the time go? I love the times I have been able to spend with you.  I am a proud Auntie!

Happy Birthday Monkey Boy!