My youngest son turns two today. I went to the crib this morning and pulled his warm little body out from beneath the pile of blankets. He huddled against my chest and said "Hi,"--like he says every morning when I come into the room.
His five-year-old brother danced in and started jumping on the bed." Jeremiah's birthday's today. Can he open his presents?" To him, a birthday means presents and cake, what else?
"Not yet," I say, as I huddle Jeremiah closer and let my mind drift back to two years ago today. I was sore. I was tired. But I was already holding a precious little baby in my arms.
To Jeremiah, today is just another day. He'll enjoy the hot dogs (his favorite food) and chocolate cake we'll eat tonight. He'll enjoy the toys, though he won't understand why he gets them.
Jeremiah squirms, and I realize I'm pressing him too tight as I remember first holding the precious baby that almost didn't make it into the world. So I loosen my grip and snuggle my cheek against the top of Jeremiah's soft hair, and I remember.
I am thankful for my son:
For the gift of raising him and caring for him.
For the smile on his face when he's happy.
For the tears when he's sad.
For the way his eyes light up and he runs to hug me after I get home from being gone a few hours.
What about you? What are you thankful for when you look at your child today?
There are probably tons of things, but all I can say right now is that being a Mom is GREAT! Happy Birthday to your little one!
ReplyDeleteThanks Carolyn! I think so too--most days. :)
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