Bennett,

In just almost 2 weeks, you will be turning one. I am not sure if you will ever get to read this, and if you do, it won't make sense for a long time. But, I just wanted to write to you and let you know that you are so loved.

On December 11th 2015, I was blessed with the greatest joy of my life. I will never forget hearing that you were finally brought into this world. It was the happiest moment of my life. I knew at that moment that everything I would do, would not only hurt me, but it would also hurt you. (That thought still runs through my mind anytime I think about doing anything dumb.) Then, on my birthday I got to meet you. You were so precious and perfect I didn't even think you were real. I thought it was one big prank and you were a little baby doll. I didn't let go of you that whole time you were there to visit me. I was so happy and just in aw of how adorable you were. You mainly kept your eyes closed the whole time, but shortly before you left I asked you to please open your eyes for my birthday, and you did. Your eyes were so big and beautiful, and they still are. In that moment I knew that me and you would have an unbreakable bond, and now almost a year later, we sure do.

Being your auntie is such a blessing. I love watching you grow and change into your own little person. You have such a big personality for such a little person. You seem to be growing so fast. It honestly feels like yesterday you were just a tiny baby who fit in the crook of my arm. Now you are up and walking around and talking. I love watching you when you're just walking around and discovering things. I also love watching you when you are watching your favorite things on TV. Your face just lights up and it just makes me happy to see you happy like that.

I just want you to know that no matter what happens I will always be by your side. I don't care what time it is or what I may be doing, if you need me just call me and I will be there as soon as I can. Please don't ever be afraid to call me if you are in trouble. Just call me whenever you need me. Even if it's 4 in the morning and you just need someone to talk to. I will always be here no matter what.

Please don't ever stop being you. Even if everyone around you is telling you it is wrong to be that way, be yourself. I say that because at the end of the day, you are all you got sometimes. Love yourself and embrace who you are. Always remember that you are loved and always will be.

I love you to the moon and back, Bennett.