Happy First Birthday, Brynn!

Well, Mommy and Daddy were tempted to do the traditional activity of getting cake all over your face; but since you hate anything in or around your mouth, you would have probably be really mad at us for it. So, since it's your birthday and not ours, we decided to do a few things you would like instead.

You'll have to forgive us for our rough signing skills, but this one is for you:

Also, since your immune system is still compromised and lots of bad diseases are going around this year, we decided not to have a huge party with all your friends. Instead, we just decorated and played with you:


Daddy sometimes got more excited about your presents than you did:

But you seemed to think these new pajamas were pretty cuddly:

You weren't quite sure what to do with your halloween socks,

but you were fascinated by your new vibrating zebra:

You also had a lot of fun with your balloons:


And, as always, your hands and feet were your favorite friends:


Overall, you seemed pretty pleased with your first birthday party.

Even though they couldn't come to celebrate with you, people that loved you were still thinking of you. Some gave you kisses through the phone onto your cheek since you couldn't hear them say "I love you," and others sent you images like these:


Auntie Tatia sent you a crisp $10 bill, which we're still deciding if we should put it in a bank account for you, keep it as a keepsake for when you're older, or buy something for you right now with it. Gratefully, this decision won't be as hard as other decisions we've had to make for you!

We love you, Brynn. And as the memories of your first year fade for you, we hope you always remember our love in your heart.

To everyone else: thanks for your well wishes. We think Brynn had a great birthday!

Love, Matt and Natalie