12 Months

Dear Lucy,
You're a whole year old now! How is it possible it's been the fastest and sometimes, slowest, year of my life? In your first year of life, you've experienced an insane amount of changes and growth, going from lumpy newborn to curious, mobile big girl.

You are generally a go with the flow kind of kid. You shine when you're out and about, around people, though you get pretty loud in restaurants. You love smiling at people -- especially complete strangers. You never seemed to develop a shyness around people and will go to almost anyone. Though when we're home, you cry when Mommy leaves the room you're in. You don't have many fears -- and you don't dwell too long when you have a fall or bump into something -- though you hate the swingset.

You are learning so many new things now -- you mock cough and laugh when you hear someone do either. You can say a few words and repeat after us. The other day you showed someone a sock and said very clearly 'sock!" You sometimes understand "no." You're interested in other kids, but don't really play with them a lot. You do the cutest thing when you see certain people, mostly adult men, where you cock your head to your shoulder and give the cutest, shyest smile.

And oh my, you have an attitude on you. You want to do things your way and dislike when Mommy diverts you from doing something you shouldn't be. Changing your diaper/clothes is akin to a wrestling match most times, unless we can occupy you with a diaper or toy.

In all, you're way more than I could have ever imagined. I still can't believe you're mine, beautiful girl.

Love, Mommy