1094 Days

Dear Luke,

On the eve of your birthday, I can't help but think about your birthday eve three years ago. As you grow older, I'm sure you'll hear about the way your brother was born. Probably more than you'd like, and so I want you to know that your birth is just as special to me. Your birth made me a mom, your birth made us a family.

From the moment my water broke three years ago, I knew my life was going to change. I just didn't know how good it'd be. I didn't know that I'd stare at you for hours, marveling at how I made you.

Watching you sleep... When you were a newborn, I kept a nightlight on all night, and I would lie next to you and watch you sleep, as only a new mother can. I still love to watch you sleep.

And loving the faces you made.

Three years later, I love you more than I ever thought possible. I love the person you've become, and I love being your mommy--even on the difficult days. Sometimes I'm not as patient with you as I should be. I hope you'll forgive me for that. Three is harder than brand new, but we're both learning together.
What I have learned is that you are beautiful and compassionate and so very thoughtful. How you hug your friends goodbye at your sitter's and say, "I wish I could play more, but it's time to go home." How you love the water so much that you must be part fish. How when you're excited, you cannot hide it.

How you love your baby brother so much that we just can't keep you away. How the day he was born, you came charging into the hospital room, brushing right past us, saying, "I want to hold MY baby!"

The way you love him is beautiful. Just like the way we love you. Tomorrow we'll celebrate your birthday with friends and family at your favorite place to play. I can't wait to see what three brings.

Love. Always.