Dearest Nicky,
As your first birthday approaches, it is time to offer you some guidance to help steer you through life. The dedication page of this novel seems a rather good place to do that, and so I give it to you here:

Aim high—like your mom.
Shoot straight—like your dad.
Fight hard for what you believe in—like your uncles.

Each time you succeed, no matter how tiny the success, stop for a moment and listen for a cheer. You'll hear it in your heart. Do you hear it now?
That's me, my darling.
No matter where I am, or where you are, I'll be cheering for you.
Always, Forever.