Hi, Seporah:

 

I just got back into town last night and your grandma and I wanted to wish you a very happy first birthday. We miss you so much but enjoy seeing you grow and learn new things every day. Keep mom and dad busy sending out updates! I especially liked the recent picture of you greeting Santa Claus; we understand that was the first time you met the jolly elf. I printed out the picture and it is hanging on my office wall at work. Everyone loves coming by and looking at you with Santa. Rest assured that Santa will visit you every year about this time to bring you gifts and fun things. Grandma Pam is using the pictures you and mommy sent out with the Christmas cards to make more picture pages of YOU to show to just about everyone!

 

Now that you are one year old, you are a big girl. A lot of new things will be expected of you: school, making your bed, cooking, going out with friends, and so on. Wow, getting old is a lot of work but we think you will do fine! (Grandma Pam says maybe you don't have to do all those things this year :)) We are looking forward to your trip to Washington in February, and we think it is great that you are bringing your mom, too! We have a special exciting present for you that involves mice, and ducks, and other furry animals. We think you will be very surprised!

 

We are sure excited for the new year and all the great things that we know will be happening with you and your family. Keep smiling and take good care of your mom and dad; remember you get to chose their nursing home but they have to pay for your college. We love you and miss you....

 

Grandpa Russ and Grandma Pam