Alexis 1 Year 7/18/09

My Dear Alexis Kendyl,
I have been putting off writing this because I feel if I don’t write, somehow it’ll stop time. You are officially 1. No more months behind your age… sigh. I realize I write this often, but where did time go?

As I’m preparing your slideshow, I’m reminded of just how far you’ve come. You started out your life in the safe arms of your parents, and then were taken to the NICU. You were 3-4 days old before I could hold you again. It was very hard for both us, and your family. You were our first baby from the family (out of 21 grand/great grand kids) to ever be in the NICU, so it was quite scary. It never occurred to me that you were in danger, as I knew you’d survive. From day 1 of having you, I KNEW you were a fighter. We were finally able to hold you, and then it was a little easier. One of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do was leave you in the hospital, and go home. Once you were able to come home, it was much better.

It takes us to now. You have developed quite a little personality my dear. Everyday is something new that makes us laugh or realize that we need to baby proof more.

• You are talking more and more. You now say baby, mama, hey, do-do (Fozzy) and LOVE Mommy’s pink phone.
• You are standing and walking around, but have yet to begin walking. Today you did take your first steps toward Mommy’s phone
• You enjoy mealtimes - you love yogurt, cheese, and ice cream
• You’ve taken to your sippy cup and do not use a bottle anymore.
• Your hair is starting to become thicker and your hair is like Mommy’s ~ curly and really kinky curly when we hit humidity.
• You adore your brother, for the most part, and love playing with his toys.
• You now give kisses. You open your mouth and try to bite people. It’s cute, but wet and can be messy : )
• You adore your Daddy and say ‘Deedee’ when you see him. A blow to my ego since I was the one getting up with you during those first months.
  
  Well my dear that’s all I have for now. I have been writing to you for so long, that’ll be weird to wait another 6-12 months to write to you.
  
  We look forward to watching you walk, talk, and more of your kisses and giggles.
  
  All my love,
  Mommy

Below are some pictures of your first year of life