John Parker, you are 1!

Dear John Parker,

You are one today! I can't believe how quickly this day came. There were many, many moments during those first few months when I wondered if we'd ever make it to today. As I think back on this first year of your life, I have a few special memories. Some are just for me to remember and ponder, but a few I thought others might enjoy reading:

• Our first date! Holding you moments after delivery and realizing you had red, red hair just like your dad. They sent you to the NICU for a few hours because you weren't really crying, just grunting and growling. Turns out, that's your happy sound! You still start growling happily as soon as you wake up (hard to describe, but cute to anyone who has heard him do it).
• Realizing you had jaundice straight out of the gate. Just like your big sister, you spent your first week in the tanning bed. You did just fine and we sent that bili-bed packing as soon as we could.
• Your reflux diagnosis! It sounds crazy, but that was a happy, happy day in our house. You cried at all hours for weeks leading up to that appointment. As soon as you started taking reflux medication, we realized what an amazing personality you have. It was so nice to meet you, finally! You didn't have to do the meds for too long, but we were so thankful for them when needed.
• Seeing you grow to know your big sister and love her. Just this weekend I watched you chase her around the backyard. She thinks you're pretty special too ;)
• Your baby dedication. What a special day to dedicate your life to the Lord and thank Him for the blessing of your life. Your dad and I pray that you will love Jesus above everything else in this life. 
• Your sip-and-see in Florida. What a great day! You finally got to meet your family and friends from Florida.
• Seeing you start at your preschool (bittersweet) and make friends. Everyone loves you there! You have a great friend Louis who was born the same month as you. You guys are so cute together. 
• Rocking you each night while I give you your final bottle of the day. You never stop moving all day long until those few moments when it's just me and you.

Little man, I can't think of words to tell you how special you are to me. I've learned so much this year and I've grown in so many ways right along with you. I thank God for the blessing of your life. Watching you grow brings me indescribable joy. 

Happy Birthday Sweetest Boy!