First Birthday Letter to Maxim Tito

My Dear Maxim Tito,

Every year on your birthday, I plan to write you a letter to let you know how special you are and how much you are loved. The first year of your life has been amazing. I can't believe you are already one!

Pregnancy for me both times was rather difficult. I was sick the whole time. When I was pregnant with your brother, I wasn't sure I would survive! Of course I did, and before long, Tata and I knew we would like to have another baby and a sibling for your brother. Getting pregnant with you took time and after a failed fertility procedure we were not sure if we would be able to have a second baby. Then it happened! I was pregnant and was immediately thrilled and excited to meet you. It was a long 39 weeks, but so so worth it.

You were born on a Wednesday and delivered via C-section. I remember when I was being prepped for the surgery, Katy Perry's Dark Horse was playing on the radio. The surgery went well and you were born healthy and beautiful.

You were calm when you were born and still have a laid back, go with the flow personality.  The first few weeks after your birth felt like a dreamy, magical time. Bean was so happy to meet you and very protective of you.

Breastfeeding was a little difficult in the beginning. It took four or five days for my milk to come in and you were impatient to drink. I supplemented with organic formula and breast milk from a trusted friend. When my milk came in, you didn't like that there was too much milk. Thankfully you would take a bottle of breast milk and in a few weeks you were nursing like a champ.

At about five months old, if you sat at the table with us, you would cry because you wanted to eat what we were eating. One of the first foods you tried was curry sauce and you loved it. We started introducing sauces, soups and soft foods to you. Meal time is still one of your favorite things. You also like to play with the toy kitchen and play foods. Maybe you will be a chef one day.

I have loved watching you grow and develop this year. You are very social. You like to play games with us, like peek-a-boo and love when we chase you or play tickling games. You like to imitate what those around you do, especially your brother. Bean was making you laugh by doing "face plants" on my bed, then you started trying to do it yourself. No one can make you laugh like Bean.

At a year old, you still get up a few times during the night, which makes for a tired mama, but other than that, you are such an easy baby to take care of. You don't seem to know a stranger. You also get really excited when you see other babies and toddlers.

There were times when I was pregnant with you that I wondered what it would be like to have two kids. When you were born, I discovered that either my heart grew twice as large as it had been, or I grew another one that was full of love for you. Maxim Tito, you have completed our family in the most beautiful way. I am not sure what I did to deserve the privilege of raising such a wonderful human being, but I am grateful everyday that God chose me to be your mama.

I love you with all my heart today and always,

Mama