Happy First Birthday

It's here! My precious Kendall, you are one year old. Mommy can't believe it. The first few weeks as a sleep deprived, bleary eyed mother, I couldn't imagine how the time would fly. But now you are growing to be such a big girl. Every day you lose a little more of "baby" and gain a little more "toddler". I have cherished every moment with you and call myself blessed to be your mommy.

Over these past twelve months, I have prayed daily for you. There are several verses that I pray constantly over you, usually while I am rocking you, sometimes when I watch you play, and often as I go throughout the day.

As you grow to a little girl and young lady, may you:

Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. (Matthew 22:37)

Accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. (Romans 10:9-13)

Grow in wisdom, stature and in favor with God and others. (Luke 2:52)

Seek God all the days of your life. (Psalm 119:2)

Know the plans God has for you. (Jeremiah 29:11)

Grow to be a virtuous woman. (Proverbs 31)

Gain wisdom. (James 1:5)

Have boldness in the midst of opposition. (Ephesians 6:10-18)

Be called according to God's purposes. And may all things work together for your good. (Romans 8:28)

As your mother I long to protect you from any hurts and disappointments, but it is through those experiences that we can truly know God's love, grace and faithfulness. I love you more than words can express. You are beautiful. You are treasured and adored. You are loved. You are prayed for. You are answered prayer. You are precious in God's eyes. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. You are my daughter, and I love you.

Happy first birthday, my sweetheart!

Here are some pictures of you as you have grown your first year:

September 2008

October 2008

November 2008

December 2008

January 2009

February 2009

March 2009

April 2009

May 2009

June 2009

July 2009

August 2009

September 2009