How is it time for another letter to my daughter already? Here goes.

My Lovey Bear,

I can hardly believe that today was your 11 month birthday. Soon you will be 1 (waaaaah) and a big girl, no longer a baby. But remember this, you’ll always be my baby, no matter how old you are. When you’re a brooding teen, I’ll still see your adorable round face and bright, shining eyes from when you were just weeks old. This is good because if I didn’t, I’d probably want to smother you from all the eye-rolling and back-talking that is surely in my future as payback…wicked payback.

Christmas is almost here! Your first one and our first as a “real” family! Daddy and I couldn’t be more excited to share it with you. Surprisingly you’ve done very well leaving the Christmas tree alone, and the presents underneath it. You’ve only tried to touch them a couple of times. We haven’t taken you to sit on Santa’s lap at our dump of a mall, but I’m starting to think maybe I should. But I have reservations. What if he’s like Billy Bob in Bad Santa (it’s a movie that you’ll watch someday when you’re much older). I don’t want to scar you for life…there’s plenty of time for that later.

You’re not walking yet, but you’re very close. You’re perfectly happy speed-crawling all over the house. I love to watch the way your legs swish back and forth as you kick into high gear. You’re not the least bit phased by the hardwood floors, but dang, they kill my knees when I’m crawling around with you.

You have a true obsession with dogs, pointing and screeching at every one we see. It’s the cutest thing ever. Speaking of cute, when you smile now, we see your teeth. A true sign that you’re a big girl! You even have your own tiny toothbrush which you love to use.

You are the best thing in my world! I’m so lucky and honored to be your Mummy. I love you to the moon and back.

As much as it pains me to say it…Happy 11 months, my darling.