Last Few Hours

Yes, I'm that mom. When Maisey let's me rock her, I cuddle her too tight and cry as I ask her not to grow up too fast. When I had to pack up her 0-3 month clothes, I cried because my baby was growing up before my eyes . Switching her to a bottle full time was hard for me as it marked yet another mile-stone in her life that brings the inevitable--mommy will be needed less and less.

It's hard to believe that in a little over two hours I will be the mom of a one year old. Even though I'm so incredibly proud of her and enjoy every day getting to see who she is (who God has specially made her to be), it seems like just yesterday I met her for the first time. I remember the first time I got to see her and was unsure what to think-this real being laid in my arms and I couldn't believe it was true. I always knew I wanted to be a mom but, even at that moment, I didn't understand how big of a gift it really would be to get to be a mom.

Over the last month, I keep reliving the first few moments and days of Maisey's life and am so grateful all over again; to God for giving me the gift of Maisey, the gift of my own life, and the gift of getting to carry life again. To my friends and family for loving us and loving Maisey through the challenges and immense joy and to my husband, Brian, who I look at and still can't believe loves me as much as he does.

To my beautiful daughter, I love you more than any words can express and am so thankful that God gave me you. There is not one thing about you I would change. I love that you know exactly what you want and you make sure we know it too. I love that your daddy makes you laugh in ways I will probably never be able to. I love that you are starting to figure out how to pull your daddy's heart strings--you are a smart one Maisey Ann. Use it for good. I love that you give the greatest looks--dirty looks and all. I love your many different laughs and the way you scrunch up your face and blow your nose when your in a playful mood. I especially love that, first thing after you wake up, you giggle when I come to get you and cuddle so tightly when I pick you up. I still just can't believe how much love it is possible to feel for such a little person. Thank you, God, for trusting me with your child. --Love, Mommy