12 Months

Dearest Parker,

Your Dad and I are just amazed that a year has flown by so quickly.  What a year it has been.  The first few months, we were just focused on trying to figure you out and how you would fit into our family.  Now, we can't imagine our family without you in it.  You are continually bringing more joy, laughter, and delight into our world.  Our hearts and home are forever changed, and we love you beyond what words could ever convey!

12 month Stats:
Height- 29 inches (1 in. over last month)
Weight- still about 21-22 lbs.  You are moving nonstop, and your little body is getting so slender

always smiling

Teeth- 7 still, but your drooling leads me to believe more are on the way
Sleep- usually 10-11 hours a night.  You still take 2 naps a day for about 1.5 hr each.
Eating- you are a great eater.  Still mixing baby food with real food here and there.  You are always up for trying new things.  You still love sweet potatoes and carrots the best, though.
Talking- no new words yet, but you are saying Mama and Dada pretty often- and intentionally!  Your babbling is increasing each week!  I am so ready to know what you are thinking.  What has been a blessing is teaching you some sign language.  You appropriately communicate to me "more", "eat/hungry", "milk", and "all done."  Since you can't actually talk to me, it has been so helpful for you to communicate with me your needs and wants.  I am amazed that this actually works with babies.  I wish I would have started it earlier.

Your new favorite drinking location

your expressions are priceless

You are so close to walking!  You are very strong, and walk really well when assisted or when holding on to furniture or toys.  Right around your 1st birthday, you actually took 2-3 steps solo, but it isn't consistent yet.  I know most people tell me not to wish for it to come because life gets harder, but I think it will make life easier and more fun when you can get around on your own.

You love reading books every day!

We had a whirlwind month of holiday activities, but we were so blessed to spend this month with so many special people.  Your Mimi was here in SC with us for your first Christmas, and then we had a great week in Arkansas with your other grandparents and relatives.  I am overwhelmed with pride and love watching you with our family and knowing that you are now a part of it.

Your first year was a full one.  You have already had two surgeries- both of which seemed so scary and frightening at the time.  Now we look back and are so impressed how well you recovered and how well you continue to do.  You have no idea how many lives you have touched and how many parents you have encouraged by your story.

We've made so many friends, and enjoyed playdates along the way.  We watched Dad finish residency (highly decorated I might add), and now have watched him embark on the journey of fellowship.  We have had more visitors and visits than we can count, but are so blessed that you have gotten to know your family so well being so far away.

We love you buddy.  Can't wait to see what this next year brings!