First Birthday⚓︎

Dear Jackson,

I’m writing this at midnight on the eve of your first birthday. I’m not entirely sure if the gravity of your first birthday has really hit me yet, but at the moment, it feels pretty heavy. I’m kicking myself for not writing more letters to you in your first year, but life often comes at you fast, and it’s been quite a year.

The first letter I ever wrote to you came while I was waiting in the observation room with your mom. In that letter, I said that I was excited, but terrified; that’s still every bit as true today as it was this time last year. The difference is that you’re here, and while things make sense and are exciting, it’s still every bit as terrifying.

Sitting down and reflecting on this past year, we’ve all come a long way. I’ve learned more about myself than I could’ve imagined. You challenge me to do better, and you inspire me to become a better version of myself. Being home with you for the last 6 months has amounted to some of the best moments of my life - watching you grow up, saying words and learning what things are, take your first steps (assisted), eating solid foods, becoming more independent, on and on.

Your first birthday is a milestone, not just for you, but also for your mom and I. I can’t put into words how proud we are of you and all that you’ve achieved in this first year of your life. You’re a smart boy, and that’s going to take you as far as you want it to. Your mom and I are going to do all we can to encourage that.

Happy and healthy first birthday, son. I love you more than you know.

Always and forever,

Dad