Happy Birthday Spawn!

It has been exactly twenty four months since you joined this crazy world, and although you were safer inside me, I am very happy that we have had the chance to get to know each other. It has been such an honour to watch you grow, developing from a cute little angel to a sassy and opinionated tot who refuses to accept that ‘M’ is not ‘N’!

It has been a full year, my love, and our bond has gotten stronger. I remember when you used to feel safe in my arms because you thought we were the same person, now you feel safe in my arms because you know how much I love you! You have also become your daddy’s best friend which melts my heart. Did you know that since you were just a little poppyseed, he has been speaking of the day when you would see him as more than just your protector, more than just a dad? It’s funny to think that roles are reversed and now as I watch the two of you, wishing to be a part of your secret club.

Twelve months ago, you had just learnt how to walk. I remember being very proud that you were taking a few steps without mommy or daddy holding your hand, worried that you might be growing too fast. You are now climbing onto the counters, emptying drawers, getting your own snacks and learning to write. Forget the alphabet and numbers, you learnt those all by yourself! Slow down, my love, we can’t keep up with you… It’s way too soon for you to become so independent! What warms my heart is that despite your new found freedom, you still wake up in the middle of the night and refuse to go back to sleep unless we hold your hand. You also have a funny habit of forcing daddy and I to rub bellies with you. Spawn, only you could come up with such!

This time last year, we spent the weekend chasing and feeding ducks because you’ve always loved animals. It was your first time in the park and you had such a wonderful time looking at all the different birds, both big and small. You already loved nature, but being surrounded by so much greenery definitely brought those little dimples out to celebrate. You also had a photoshoot to capture your first milestone in style; the tea party with the bears, the balloons in the clouds, the cuddles with mommy and daddy… Let’s not forget that it was your very first time eating cake and I am quite sure you had more fun smashing it than eating it!

Baby, in just one year you have shown me what persistence looks like. You have fallen so many times and gotten right back up again, yet in twenty eight years, this is something I have not mastered. You might find it strange to read this one day, but I have to admit that both your father and I have been learning so much about life because of you. The night you had to get stitches on your face, you just wanted to jump on the bed right after. A part of me wonders if you forget about these traumatic moments, or if you just don’t care. Whatever the case, you are strong and I hope that doesn’t change.

Young lady, we will discuss your attitude on a separate day, but I just have to mention that you really do remind me of myself! Your dad jokes about this a lot, but we both know that you get your stubborn, strong-willed, demanding nature from me… Gosh, it feels weird to finally meet an exact replica of myself! It’s not bad at all and with time you will learn how to control your emotions. For now I just also ask that you continue to fight for what you believe in, stand your ground and keep fighting until you get what you want.

The world is a crazy place right now so we couldn’t throw you a party, but we know that all you ever want is to spend quality time with us. You will get our undivided attention, from breakfast in bed to jumping on the couch, or from signing along to your favourite nursery rhymes to playing horse. Anything for you, little Spawn.

Today is your special day, my love, and it feels great to spend it with you. Thank you for being our wonderful daughter.

Love,

Mama and Papa

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If you would like to know how Gabby became ‘Spawn’ read it here