11 Months

Dear Gwendolyn Rebecca,

Oh sweet Gwendolyn aka: Gwenie, Gwenny, Winnie, Dendolin, Dendo, Gwenawinawins, Scooty Booty...you're 11 months old today! I feel like you get sick of me telling you how much I love you, but really...can you tell someone you love them too much? I don't think that's possible. We speak our own language of love to one another complete with kisses, waves, clapping, squeezes, and “get yous”. We share secrets (daddy still doesn’t know about the Hershey kisses), shopping trips, and Sunday naps. Life with you is easy and simple. Except for when it’s a tad complicated (in and out and in and out of your car seat) and plenty busy (you’re a mover.) Even during those times, life with you is still wonderful just because you’re in it.

It’s been almost a year since you entered this world into a giant bathtub filled with water. Not only did I get my dream labor/delivery, but I got a dream baby too. Your daddy and I always talk about how blessed we are by you…

You almost never spit-up.

(Same clothes two days in a row? You bet.)

You are rarely fussy. 

(Who isn't when they're tired?)

You have poked through 8 teeth and barely batted an eyelash. 

(Daddy still doesn't believe in the necklace - how could he not?!)

You have had one cold this winter. One!

(Boohoo – we don’t like x-ray machines.)

You have always been a great eater.

(The one sign you respond to is the sign for "milk".)

You are sensitive. 

(You don't like being disciplined.)

And sweet. 

(Wet kisses anyone?)

And funny.

(You smile with your entire face.)

And chill.

(Staying up with the big kids well past your bedtime.)

And observant.

(I'm pretty sure you could beat anyone in a staring contest.)

And tolerant.

(Certain cousins, um..."love" you a lot and you don't mind one bit.)

And determined.

(New obstacles don't get you down.)

And lovely.

(You have a sweet spirit about you.)

And I absolutely, positively love your little half grin when you’re nursing and we make eye contact. I so wish I knew what thoughts were going through your head at that moment. I’m sure they’re something along the lines of, “my mom rocks.” Or something.

Of course, even if you had been more sick or hadn’t been such a great teether, I would still think you were a dream baby for the mere fact that you’re ours. But trust me, we don’t take any of it for granted. And I often wonder if we could ever be so lucky again *smile. Nevertheless, the three of us are one good team. We have our routine down, and most days go pretty darn well.

God knew I needed a lot of work in different areas of my life. You are so tiny yet have made such an impact on me. I’ve discovered that it’s not about me (shocking!) and really, it’s not even about you…it’s about Him. Him working through you and me to draw us closer to Himself. I’m to be an instrument of grace and truth in your life to help guide you towards righteousness. (I certainly can't do that alone.) 

When I look at you,  I am reminded of the importance of shepherding your heart well. We have a big job in being your parents, and if I teach you anything in life I hope it’s that you  – with your bald little head and beautiful big eyes – realize you need Jesus. Oh girl, we all do. When we really deserve death and wrath, he shows us love, mercy, forgiveness, and grace. I just know you'll be a blessing to others, much like you've been a blessing to us these past 11 months.

In one month we'll be celebrating your 1st birthday, but for now I'm going to just relish in you being exactly 11 months old. Thanks for providing us with the greatest 11 months of our lives! You are my greatest joy, sweet baby girl.

I love you! I love you! I love you!

Mommy