The first year is a whirlwind of activity and emotion. You’re learning at an impressive rate, my little one. So fast, I struggle to keep up. With each new thing you learn, the expression on your face is one of pure pride. I’m so proud of you, but I can’t believe this first year is already coming to a close. 

The first year is one of exhaustion and adjustment. Of trying to understand this new little being who I just met. Of trying to balance you with your sister. 

Time, please slow down. 

I blinked and you’re about to turn one. I’m torn over it. I’m blindsided by it. It can’t already be a year, can it? But it has. A year of firsts. You’ve grown so much. Your first smile, your first laugh, your first tooth, your first solid food, your first steps have all come and gone. There are so many firsts yet to come, but I can’t help feeling sad. 

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You’re no longer my little baby. You’re my big baby. So much bigger than your sister was. I know you want to grow. You want to chase her around. You want to play. 

Time, please slow down. 

The days of nursing and cuddling you to sleep are numbered, and I feel the moments ticking away. With each piece of clothing you outgrow, I feel a twinge of sadness.

Please be patient if I hold you a little longer because soon you will be putting yourself to sleep. Soon, I will have my bed back. Soon, you’ll be my little boy and no longer my sweet baby. 

Time, please slow down. 

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And so, on your birthday, I will smile and eat cake. I will celebrate because you are an amazing gift and you deserve to be celebrated.

With each passing day, I will cherish you and try to remember these days when you were just a baby, my sweet boy. I will delight in each new thing you learn.

It all goes by too quickly, for I know, time doesn’t listen to me. 

Time, please slow down.