Dear Arianna, (1 year)

Dear Arianna, 

You are one year old. I think about all that has happened in the last year and I don't even know how to begin to describe the joyous change you have brought into my and your dad's lives. We were driving home tonight from Grandpa Petersen's and we passed the Krispy Kreme where we were when we got the phone call letting us know you were on the way. The "Hot Now" sign was in the window and we were so tempted to stop in and feed you your first doughnut. Maybe we will do that tomorrow. 

Let's see...some of the changes this month...You still are not walking or really even standing. You cry every time we stand you up. You have learned to turn around in a circle while you are sitting on the floor. You started doing that while your cousins, Lilly and Kate, were staying with us, while their mom had her baby. I think you realized that you couldn't keep up with them so you just sat and turned to watch everything they were doing.

You got your 7th tooth this month. It was not very nice to you while it was coming in...I don't think I have ever seen you so miserable. But the pain only lasted a couple of days. You are making all kinds of sounds, and seem to understand the basics of conversation. You make a noise when someone hands you something or one of our phones makes a noise. You have also been saying a phrase that sounds very much like "whats that" when you see things. 

Naps have been a bit of a battle. Some days you won't take an afternoon nap, then today you slept for 3 hours :) We have been very busy with friends and family and you love all the activity. You always want to be where things are happening and will fuss if you are left out. 

This year has been so wonderful. We are looking forward to celebrating many more birthdays. This is the last "Dear Arianna" letter until your 2nd birthday. But the blog will continue. I love you my precious little girl.

Love,

Mom 

Ben putting together her wagon

Ben had to go to work so Uncle Dan finished her wagon

After cake (see the video)