Madison's 1st Birthday

I started a tradition where I write a poem for my niece and nephews (Luke, I wrote yours, I just need to send it to you) when each turned a year old. Now, it's my daughter's turn, and I can't believe she is already a year old. So here it is:

May you always be surprised

with "ooos" and "oohhs"

through the chapters

you will travel

May your laugh be

just as infectious

over silly dances

and offbeat songs

Remeber

there was a dog

who had a name

May you get beside yourself

with flailing arms and feet

at the sight of your

favorite people

(even if you don't call us by

name and when I say us, I

mean me)

May you continue to find excitement

in touchdowns, Christmas lights, and

pushing the shopping cart of

your life

no matter what's thrown in

your basktet

Remember

Monster trucks

are for girls too

People will love you

for who you already are

and

Reading does make you

smarter

You

are one of my favorite people

I love you and will love you

Always

From the second you were born

I knew the word

unconditional

Happy Birthday

My Sweet Girl