You are now 9 months old! 9 months ago I met you for the first time, and that was indeed the most amazing day of my life!! In that time you have grown in so many ways. You are such a fun, happy, social, loud, and pleasant little boy. Your little personality is shining through in such fun new ways these days and for your 9 month letter I want to share with you what I hope will never change about you.
Ryan, you are such a confident little guy these days. You crawl around like you own the place, you stand without holding on to anything (you seem to be getting so close to walking), and you "talk" with great conviction. While I certainly hope you don't spend your life on all fours, and I hope you get to the point where simply standing is not a feat worth a round of applause, and I of course hope you one day talk eloquently, I also hope your confidence never waivers. Always take pride in even your small achievements. I don't want you to be arrogant or boastful, but you should always be proud of who you are and what you do. You are a special little boy who I have no doubt will one day be an amazing man. Likewise, never be afraid to speak up and out....against injustice, for the underdog, or for a cause in which you believe strongly.
You are also such a friendly little boy. You smile, laugh and giggle freely. You wave hello and goodbye and flash a coy smile even to strangers. You clap for others openly. Don't ever lose this tendency to be friendly and kind to all you meet. Never be afraid to smile at a stranger, you never know, it might make their day! Always continue to celebrate the people in your life. Share in their successes, and yes, give them a round of applause when they deserve it!
You are also a silly little boy. You laugh at zerberts on your belly and when being tickled. You love peek-a-boo. You enjoy watching the Muppets with Daddy. You belly laugh whenever Mommy or Daddy bounce up and down. You find humor and joy in so many things. Please, do not ever lose this tendency to laugh freely and openly. Find joy in your life every day, even on the hard days.
Ryan, last but not least, never, never, never, stop being yourself. While I know the world will impact you, and mold you, and affect you, I truly hope that you will always be true to yourself. I can't wait to watch you grow and develop and become the amazing boy, teenager, and man that I know you will become. I am so proud to be your Mommy! I love you so much!
Happy 9 Month Birthday!
Love,
~Mommy
