Dear Ava

Dear Ava,

I cannot believe that in just 10 short days you will be a year old! There are so many things I want to say to you, but I cannot even begin to find the words to describe exactly what I feel.

You know or will learn that mama is a big ball of emotions, and when it comes to you... I am a big mess.

From the moment you came into this world and I held you in my arms, something happened to me. You gave me the ability to feel a love that I never in my wildest dreams thought existed. It is a love that is so wonderful and so scary all at the same time. But I thank you for this feeling because I have never felt more alive in my life.

So I guess this is more of a thank you. Thank you for bringing so much joy into our lives. Thank you for all the laughs and smiles. Thank you for teaching us what strength and courage really means, and finally thank you for loving me back.

On your special day you will be dressed in a beautiful outfit, you will eat your first piece of cake, you will open lots of presents, but most importantly, you will be surrounded by all the people that love you. This will be a day when everyone gives back all the love you have given them.

I love you Ava!