Happy Birthday, Baby Brother

Hello my sweet,

Happy birthday baby boy. You are one year old today! And although we are thousands of miles apart, our hearts are there with you to celebrate your first year.

How I wish we could celebrate together, here at home. I wonder, would you prefer cake or cupcakes? Would you enjoy the laughter and mayhem of a party, or prefer the quiet celebration with family?

Although it hurts my heart not to be there for this milestone, I do take comfort in knowing that you are safe, and that you are in good hands.

I hope you feel secure and happy. I wish for you strength and health. And most of all, I wish for you to feel bathed in love, both from near and afar.

No, we can't be together for your first birthday. But you still get a first birthday letter! You might find them funny, but it's the one time of year that your mama can be as sappy as she wants, and marvel that the world continues to be graced by special people who bring amazing gifts to share.

We don't know much about one another yet. I remind myself that although a first year and passed, (and with it your first smile, your first tooth, and perhaps even a first step...) there is still so very much ahead of us. A lifetime, my love.

Your given Korean name means 'merciful friend'. Hopefully you and Little Man will grow to be best of friends. He is anxious to meet you. He woke up this morning, as excited that is was your birthday as he is when it's his own.

He helped bake your cake today, too. He chose to make his favorite, chocolate cake topped with M&Ms and sprinkles! Maybe it will be your favorite one day too?

We sang you happy birthday as we watched the flame of your birthday candle flicker. And we all blow it out together, sending our birthday wishes for you to the sky.

Today also, we wished for comfort and peace for your birth mother. She made an adoption plan for you, making sure you were safe. For that, we are forever grateful. She is the root of your tree of life. Her roots run deep within you and set a foundation for your tiny tree to grow.

We anxiously await the day when we can meet you, sapling. We wait for you, ready to lavish you with sunshine and love. We will work through the storms together. And stand firm beside you, a safe grove of family to surround you and watch over you as you grow.

Yes, so many wonderful years ahead of us.

Until your next sappy birthday letter,

Love, Mommy