Dear Mukeni,
You have no idea how excited I am to have you in my life. Truly. One year ago, you arrived and quietly, completely changed everything. This past year, you have been the greatest blessing, the softest joy, the sweetest delight my heart has ever known.
I have loved the woman I have become while nurturing you and watching you grow. Loving you has stretched me, softened me, and grounded me in ways I did not know I needed. You have been my reminder of rest. Before I had you, I asked God for rest—and He answered me with you. In your tiny hands, your sleepy smiles, your gentle presence, He gave me peace.
We named you Yadah because we praised God when you came, and we pray that praise will always flow through your life—through your voice, your choices, and your heart. And Mukeni, my happy one—may happiness always be the aura you carry into every room. May joy recognize you as its home.
Watching you grow this past year has been nothing but joy. Your first laughs, your curious eyes, the way you study the world like it is full of wonder—because it is, and so are you. You have taught me to slow down, to notice the little things, to love more deeply than I ever thought possible.
My prayer for you is simple and endless:
That you will always know you are loved.
That you will be brave, kind, and gentle with yourself.
That God will walk closely with you all the days of your life.
And that no matter where life takes you, you will always feel safe, seen, and celebrated.
Happy first birthday, my miracle, my answered prayer, my joy.
I am so honored to be your mother.
psst-
Mukeni,
If you are reading this as a teenager, just know a few things:
First — yes, you were this cute. No, I am not exaggerating. I have the photos, and I will absolutely show them to your friends if necessary.
Second, you have always been strong-willed. Even at one year old, you knew what you wanted, and you were not shy about expressing it. That fire in you? It is a gift. Just remember to pair it with kindness and wisdom.
Third — on the days you feel misunderstood, uncertain, or like the world is asking too much of you, remember this: you were prayed for long before you could speak. You were loved fiercely before you could earn anything. Nothing you do will ever make you less worthy of love.
Also, your name still matters.
Yadah — never stop praising God, even when life feels confusing.
Mukeni — happiness is not just something you feel; it is something you bring.
And finally, whether you are fifteen or fifty, you will always be my baby. I will always be in your corner, cheering loudly, praying quietly, and loving you endlessly — even when I am strict.
With all my love (forever and always),
Mama
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