One.

Dearest Zoey,

One year ago today you made your grand appearance and life has never been the same since!

In true “Second Child Syndrome” form this letter is coming to you a day late. Sorry kiddo! As the second baby you have gotten less fanfare for every achievement and milestone, but you have also gotten to reap the rewards of parents that have been broken in for you. And you’ve had the pleasure of having an older brother to torment conspire with play with.

You have been a kid who is not super into the sleeping (though lately it has gotten much better) and have always been eager to be on the move. Your active, energetic, clever, devious, fun side is nicely balanced with your loving, cuddly, observant side which  has made you a real joy to be around. Everywhere we go people are drawn in by your big blue eyes and your completely infectious smile — you are indeed another chick magnet! I think it doesn’t hurt either that you’re still almost totally bald so you’re hanging on to the babyish quality that is so irresistible.

For your First Birthday we did a joint party with Nick for his Third Birthday, since we figured this year is the only year neither of you were old enough to protest. You both had a ton of fun playing with the other kids — I think you had as much fun with Nick’s friends as he did! You enjoyed your first cupcake but I’m pretty sure you would have had even more fun if I would have put frosting on it. We remedied that with ice cream on your actual birthday and let you have your own dish. An appropriate mess was made.

You’ve grown so much in the past year, both physically and intellectually. I’ve really enjoyed watching you mature and learn so many new things. I can’t wait to see what’s next.

Love, Mama