Dear Blake,
Today is your first birthday! I know it’s cliché, but it seems like just yesterday you were a squishy, red-faced newborn laying in my arms. From the moment you were born you have brought such joy and happiness into my life. When you were a newborn, I loved just holding you close and smelling your sweet baby breath.  I loved our afternoon nap together, and I loved pinching your big fat cheeks.  (I still do!) As you grew, your first smiles held me captive, and your baby giggles were so contagious. Everyone said you looked like a little old man because of your mop of hair, but I cried when daddy finally convinced me to give you a proper haircut. 
You are such a people person, and light up whenever anyone even so much as glances in your direction.  You love your brother and sister, and are so content and happy when you play with them. 
You are such a delight, and at night when you fall asleep in my arms, sometimes it’s all I can do to lay you in your crib.  I just want to hold you forever.  You love to read stories and you also love when I sing to you.  But one thing you are NOT is a good sleeper.  One year old and still not sleeping through the night….sigh.
You are such a sweet, loving baby.  You give me hundreds of very wet, slobbery kisses everyday.  Whenever I get you out of your crib after your nap, you tuck your arms under your body, lay your head on my shoulder and say, “ahhhhh…” That has to be one of my favorite things ever.
This year certainly hasn’t been without its challenges.  Three kids is HARD work, and some days I thought I was going to lose my sanity. Grocery shopping became impossible, and most days getting a shower was a major victory.  But as you grow and become more independent, things are getting back to “normal” and I know I am going to miss these hectic days because it means you are growing up. 
Blake, I love you so much. You are a very special little boy, and I am lucky to be your mommy!  Happy Birthday my beautiful, sweet, giggly, loving, sparkly, energetic son. 
Love, Mom  

Blake doesn’t really like cake, so I made him a giant cookie.  Turns out he didn’t really like the cookie a whole lot either.  But he L.O.V.E.D. the M&Ms.  I should have just dumped a package on his tray and called it good.

WATCH ME GROW!    
PS—I made his hat and his t-shirt. It was fun and easy! (and made for some cute pics!)