Happy 1st Birthday, Gabriel Lee!!

Today is Gabriel's FIRST BIRTHDAY! Can you believe it? Time sure does fly! This year has been the most incredible year... that boy sure does know how to put a smile on my face. 

It's hard to believe that a year ago we were in the hospital waiting for Gabe to arrive. All of the things we went through... bedrest, hospital stays, surgery... it all led us to where we are today. So, you can imagine why this birthday is so special for us. I want it to be the best birthday ever for my little boy. There was a time when we weren't so sure about his future... so having him here and celebrating his FIRST birthday is so, so special for us. Yes, I know that he won't remember everything about his birthday, but he will always have pictures to look back on to see how special this day is. 

Gabriel Lee, 

Today you are 1 year old! I can't believe it. You are growing up way too fast. You learn something new everyday and you can put a smile on my face no matter what. I don't mind the early mornings or the (sometimes) late nights... because I know that these are the moments and the memories that I will never forget. 

I didn't know how much life would change a year ago when you came into our lives. You've made Mommy and Daddy's life so much better. You brighten every day with your smile. Even though you are constantly learning something new... you even manage to teach us something new every day too. I'm so proud of you. I'm proud that you proved the doctor's wrong. I'm proud that you have surpassed so many expectations and that you are strong and healthy. I'm amazed when I look back on where you started and where we are now. Looking at you now, no one would ever know that you're life began 10 weeks too early. 

Some of your favorite things to do now is: crawl all over the place. Pull yourself up and walk around while holding on. Clearing the coffee table off for Mommy. Open and shut doors. Crawl out of the room when you know you're not supposed to. Watch Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. and of course, play with your all your toys. 

I can't believe how you are growing so fast. I wish I could freeze time. I love how Mommy is your best friend. I love walking into your room in the morning and seeing that BIG smile on your face. I love your laugh. I like how you love to explore everything... and I mean EVERYTHING! haha. Most of all, I love the person that you are and I look forward to seeing the young man that you will become. You've made our lives so much better, Gabriel Lee. We love you so much and we want you to have a very, very special birthday! I can't wait until your birthday party. We're going to celebrate with everyone that means the most to you and we're going to have so much fun! 

Happy Birthday Baby Boy! We love you so much! 

Love, 

Mommy and Daddy