Dear Garrison,

This is a letter that I wrote to Garrison on his birthday.  I thought of posting the video from right after my c section, but didn't know if anyone would truly enjoy that ;)

My sweet Garrison,

It is hard to believe that a year ago today we were just getting to know each other.  I will never forget seeing you being held over the curtain, your hands and legs going everywhere! You were perfect.  It wasn't much longer and I was able to hold you.  Me and your dad were just in awe of you.  I could not believe I had such a perfect little person for a son.  Ever since that day I have been constantly trying to file away every little moment that we have spent together.

The few weeks after you were born are hard to remember!  No one around our house was sleeping very much and I was still trying to recover from your birth.  It was a hard time for me.  I wanted to be your sole comforter, provider, everything, but my body was making me feel crazy!  You also were having major tummy aches.  There were many days and nights that we spent rocking.  I can remember rocking you, playing with your beautiful hair, staring at your sweet little nose, and praying that my emotions would get back to normal soon.  Oh the tears that fell during those times that your sweet little head absorbed.  But finally the dark cloud lifted, we started to bond, and you started growing so fast!  In no time at all you were smiling, laughing, rolling everywhere, and now, walking and RUNNING!

For your first year you have been mine (I am so blessed to have a husband (your Daddy) who works hard so I can stay home with you).  The majority of our days and sometimes nights have been spent together.  But I am afraid that you are quickly turning into a Daddy's boy.  It is ok- I knew it would happen, but why so soon?!?!?

You and your Daddy share a bond that Mommy's just can't understand.  You are so much like Ryan- you can never just give up on something!  I have watched you try to climb onto the couch, only to fall a million times.  You would cry a little bit, get frustrated, then try again until you got up there! I am sure your determination will help you to accomplish so many great things. Your fearless spirit and love of life reminds me daily of why I love your Dad.  You have also started recognizing more of your family.  You and your Aunt Celeste share a special bond.  She is always able to comfort you.  Aunt Allison is always good for a funny dance- and she can usually have you cracking up in minutes.  And even though you don't get to see her all the time, you always immediately go to her!  You love your Gigi.  She is always quick to brag on you (I secretly think that you love it).  She also loves to play and be silly and feeds you lots of yummy treats :) And then there is your Popey and Meme.  You love to hug your Meme, and you always try to get her glasses and you think Popey is just hilarious!  And in a couple of short months you will be a big brother to Allie Parker.  You will do great!  You are already very protective of me- so I am sure you will be perfect at fulfilling big brother "duties"  So, while it is a little sad that I am losing my spot, I love watching you bond and become closer to our wonderful family.

Well I guess this is enough.  Thank you for such a wonderful year. We had a rough start, but I think we did ok!  Thank you for your sweet smile.  Thank you for your laugh that makes my heart so happy.   Thank you for letting me teach you and thank you for teaching me so much. Thank you for loving me so unconditionally.  You are such a perfect gift to your Momma!  I hope you have a wonderful first birthday! You may be growing up- but you will always be my Gar Bear :)