Dear Katey,

Last year Valentine’s Day was my favorite ever, and probably one of the most memorable days of my life. Not because of anything traditionally associated with the special day, but because we were waiting for you to make your entrance into the world and your mama had invited me along for the ride.

You arrived just after midnight a year ago today, and your mama shocked me when she said: “Hello, Katey.” Because, ya know, I’d claimed that name long ago. (So, just be prepared, you’ll probably one day have a really good friend with a name similar to yours, because you know, my children and your mama’s children are bound to be great friends.)

The first year of your life was bursting – not only for you but for those around you. You attended more weddings than most infants ever do, went camping (yay for parents who raise their little munchkins right), traversed the globe, and were read to so much that you have no choice but to be a bookworm.

You, my dear, have a smile that lights up the lives of those around you. You grin, smile, give hugs and kisses with great abandon. You walk like a pro, put away your blocks, and find unparalleled merriment in fuzzy blankets. It’s been so much fun watching you grow and your personality emerge. I’m amazed by how much we can already tell about you, and I’m rather delighted that I get to standby and watch as you continue to discover the world.

Katey, you’re special. You’re loved. You’re made in the image of God. And, you have a whole group of people around you cheering you on as you discover this grand adventure called life.

Katey-did, I love you. Happy Birthday.

❤