Happy Birthday Baby/My Wish For You

Sept 8, 2012- 1 year old

We spent Sept 8 with a couple of cute kids that we were babysitting for some friends of ours so that they'll do the same for K next month when we go away.  We kept it simple (since we had her party the week before) with birthday cake after lunch and 1 small present (a play set of keys that has buttons that make sounds like an actual set- it was a big hit amongst all 3 kids).  Cole and I celebrated with a steak dinner (the first birthday is a big deal to the parents, too).  Unfotunately, K had an awful night.  She slept from about 7:30pm till 10:30pm (so while we were awake) and then was up from 10:30pm till 5am.  I don't know if she's teething, or if it's because she caught the cold of the kids' we were watching, but whatever it was- we had a sleepless night.  Eventually she did pass out in bed with us- it was kind of nice to sleep with her again.  I can't believe a whole year has gone by- it's felt long and incredibly short.

At a year old, K is a spirited, brave, independent and kind little girl.  She loves walking, she loves pools and baths and waterparks, she loves dancing (to ANYTHING), she loves squealing, she loves to wave and say hi.  Her favourite meal to eat is my garlic spaghetti, her favourite dessert is probably icecream.  Her favourite TV show is Sid the Science Kid.  Even after a year of toys, her favourite comfort toy is still her Lamb Chop.

[To K] 
My beautiful daughter, on the off chance I never get to tell you these things myself, here are my wishes for you for your life:

1. I wish for you an education.  There are few things in this world that can never be stolen from you and never lose their value and an education is one them.  I wish for you to develop a love of learning and pursue any and all education you desire- you have already shown me your capacity for quick learning and I have always been able to see the light of intelligence in your eyes.  There may still be some people who will tell you an education is of no worth unless it can yield a big salary or it's of no value unless you plan to have a lifelong career.  Some may even still try to tell you because you are a woman there are certain paths you need to take.  My wish is for you to follow all the desires of your heart when it comes to education.  It doesn't matter how long, how short, how small or how adventurous your ambitions are- an education is never a waste of time.  A better educated society can only help not hinder.  Remember to maintain humility as you study and learn- to be learned is good as long as you remember where all knowledge comes from.  Beware of arrogance.  For a society full of arrogance will only lead to more problems.

2.  I wish for you to gain your own testimony of our Savior, Jesus Christ.  I wish for you to follow his precepts and to find peace and joy in all aspects of your life.  I wish for you to gain a testimony of His infinite atonement to be always able to feel of the love and forgiveness that is available to you.

3.  I wish for you to maintain that confidence you have now and to know you can have the life you want.  Pursue your dreams and don't live a life with regret.  But I do wish for you to find balance in your life as well.  I wish for you a family of your own.  I know of no greater calling or profession that provides you with such important opportunities to learn patience, compassion and love than that of wife and mother.  It will be hard to find that balance in your life, which will bring you the most happiness because it will probably involve some sacrifice- but follow your instincts and prioritize what is of the most value and you will lead a life of few regrets.

4.  My final wish for you is to be kind.  If you do nothing else in life but learn to be kind and leave judgments at the door, you will have lead a life of great worth.  This life can be hard, and cruel and scary, but it is your job to be kind.  You are strong and independent and I'm not worried about you losing that, so I wish for you to focus on developing kindness, compassion and not judging others.  Be willing to be vulnerable to others.  You can be strong and kind.  I have had a really hard time with this concept and it's one that I feel is crucial at this time in the world.  There is enough hate and meanness in this world without you having to contribute to it.  Be kind.  In your thoughts, in your words, in your actions.  Always.

I love you and I am so proud of you.  My wish for you is joy.