Martin Manifesto: A Letter to My Son {on his first birthday}

Dear Huston,

Happy Happy Happy Birthday, my sweet boy!

“Don’t blink!”

“Time flies!”

“The days are long, but the years are short!”

After hearing all the warnings of time passing by faster than I could ever imagine, I thought I was prepared for how quickly this first year would pass. I made a point to “live in the moment,” document every second I possibly could with photos and videos, and just to “soak it all in” every chance I got. Yet somehow, I’m still in shock and disbelief that we’ve reached your first birthday. Where has the time gone?!!?

Looking back through the pictures and videos of your first year makes me all types of emotional. Although I was very intentional in paying attention to the little details and tried desperately to permanently etch it all in my memory, I realize now that memories fade and are quickly replaced with new memories…which makes me even more grateful that your daddy and I snapped so many pics and videos to document the big milestones as well as the ordinary, daily routines of this past year. I never ever want to forget.

You are completely and totally your daddy’s mini-me. Even strangers will point out how much you look like your daddy. I just consider myself very lucky to have two incredibly handsome guys to call mine! With those bright blue eyes and that crooked little smirk you flash, it’s nearly impossible to keep a straight face. You can brighten even the darkest day, little man. Your happiness and {endless} energy are contagious. Simply put, you make this world a better place!

I always knew I wanted to be a mom, but I had no idea how truly fulfilling that role would actually be for me. I am proud of several accomplishments in my life, but those all pale in comparison to the pride I have in being your momma. You have changed me for the better in so many ways. Most importantly, you’ve helped me figure out what really matters in life…the petty things that used to consume me no longer matter {at least not nearly as much!}. My faith is so much stronger because I’ve seen firsthand God’s work in creating you…our tiny, perfect miracle. I pray with you every night, thanking the Lord for blessing us with you and asking for His guidance in raising you to know and love Him.

Multiple times this week I’ve caught myself holding you just a little longer, squeezing you just a little tighter…listening to you breathe, watching you sleep…just “soaking it all in.” Although you are now officially a “toddler,” just know that no matter how old you get, you will ALWAYS be my baby. Son, you will never fully comprehend how loved you are. It’s a love that I never even knew existed until I became your momma…a love so intense that sometimes it almost hurts. The unconditional love I have for you will never waiver.

Bittersweet. If I had to pick one single word to describe this past year, it would be bittersweet. It’s been a perfect mix of over-the-top-excitement each time you reach a new milestone combined with the sadness and realization that you are growing up way too fast! I fear that each year is going to fly by faster than the last…but your daddy and I will be right there by your side, learning with and supporting you along the way {and documenting it all with pictures and videos!}. We look forward to all the bittersweet moments that lie ahead…celebrating the successes, learning from the mistakes…all while wishing we could press the pause button to slow down time.

Thank you, precious boy. Thank you for making me a momma. Thank you for being my son. Thank you for the best year of my life.

Happy 1^st birthday, little man!

Love you times infinity,

Momma