Dear Clark:: One Year Old

To our little goofball, Clark.

Our world became brighter, fuller, and even sillier with your arrival. You came into this world with a head full of hair and a big personality. From day one, you were full of cuddles and smiles. Your first smile and laugh were big and bright and you continue to crack us up. You make yourself known with your big-bellied laugh and sneaky grin.

Kannon, your big brother, has always loved you. He tries to share his toys and food with you and together you work it out---a few bruised heads and scratches in between. You are starting to hold your ground. You no longer let him get his way. I love seeing your struggle for independence and attention.

Clark, you have a way with people, always making them feel understood. Your smile, laugh, and deep brown eyes are wise and comforting. Watching you crawl is most certainly amusing as your head bobs around to a musical soundtrack. Everything is funny to you--Emma, licking your toes, Kannon, jumping on the couch, and even Daddy, sneezing.

You are also our trouble maker. Kannon has started saying your name "Claaaaark!" just like we do to get your attention. We can always find you in places you don't belong, like under the table, on the kitchen stool, or putting buttons in your mouth. You are sweet and so sneaky! You keep us on our toes but are predictable with your love.

We were so surprised when we found out about you, but we couldn't be more thrilled with the outcome. You have made us better parents, you were the best gift for your brother, and together we have formed a wonderful family. On your first birthday, I wish for you to carry your optimism where ever you go, making everyone smile around you, and to never let a cry or tear get you down. You are our goofball, never let that change.

Thank you for showing us how to live, we all can use a little more bob in our step. Happy birthday!

Love,
Mama

Dear Clark:: Brotherly Love

 Little Clark,

Your daddy and I were talking yesterday.  We decided that the second child is a gift to parents for surviving the first one.  You are full of love, happiness, and joy.  We get to enjoy your presence without first time parents anxiety.  You laugh and smile at every little thing.  You love to stand and grab at things but most of all you love your big brother.

Someday the two of you will be wrestling down stairs, punching each other, and pulling ears.  When that day comes I will show you all the photos and read you all the stories of your brotherly love.  Kannon gives you kisses, you laugh, smile, and try to grab his face.

Yesterday, I was holding you in my lap and growling at Kannon.  He started laughing and soon you followed.  I had two babies in my lap laughing and giggling at their growling mama.   I love life.  I love my boys. 

Thank you for arriving into this world so unexpectedly soon.  You are a gift.  You have shown us how to slow down and enjoy life and love fully.  You are our little love muffin.

Love,
Mama