I used to think parents were patronising me when they told me about how it felt to become a mum or a dad. I used to think they were being just a little bit smug, because they had something I thought I would never have - something I thought I could never have.

And then I found out I was pregnant. I can't fully describe the conflicting feelings I had. I was exhillarated, euphoric, and terrified all at the same time. Your Dad felt the same way. We had both accepted that we would probably never have children but then we had met each other, clicked straight away, moved in together and almost straight away I was pregnant! My pregnancy with you was complicated but I still enjoyed every day, imagining what you would look like - even though I didn't know if you were a boy or a girl. We both couldn't wait to see you and cuddle you. Your Dad used to talk to you every night. One night he said "I can't talk long tonight because I'm getting up early to work overtime to pay for all the stuff you need!"

Finally we got to your due week and the consultant tried to persuade you to be born into the world, but after three days you still weren't keen! You were finally born by caesarean section on Saturday 26th November 2005 at 4.50pm. I loved you from the moment you were born. As the doctor told us "its a girl" and showed you briefly to me, I looked at your Dad and there were tears trickling down his face. I knew from that moment on we would love you in a way we had never loved anyone or anything before.

It's difficult to put into words how I feel about you. You are eleven months old now and it has been the most fascinating journey, watching you change and grow. Your smile is the most delightful sight to behold, and your laugh could make the saddest individual smile. You dance to any music you hear and anyone that meets you can't help but talk to you. You have changed my whole perspective on life. You are the best thing in my life - and I know your Dad feels the same way. You are quite simply my scrumptious little sausage. xxxx