You Are Loved

You might be thinking that four months is not really enough of a milestone to write about.  And, I am sure I'll write again at 6 months or 1 year.  But, right now I am just so overcome with love and can't resist.  How is my baby girl 4 months old already?  Funny how the intense pain is becoming a distant memory, but the moment she arrived and my first glimpse of her remain so vivid.

I remember the overwhelming feelings as we prepared to become a family of four---full of excitement and hope; and fear of the unknown creating anxiety and worry about my inadequacies.  Yet, from the moment Nora was born, it has felt like a seamless transition.  Just another lesson on faithfulness and trusting in God's plan.

She is such a joy--peaceful and happy and content to watch what is going on around her.  The depth in her eyes makes her seem like an old soul--as if she was sent here to teach us about the beauty of this life and all that is important in this world.

In just a few short weeks, I am going to have to drop her off at the Sitter's.  While I know she will be well cared for and loved, just as her big brother has been, it breaks my heart--knowing that life will continue to be a series of letting go so that they can blossom into who they were created to be.  What a hard balance--to truly love each stage even more than the last, and at the same time, not wanting them to grow up too quickly.

One of my favorite books to read to her is a special book from her Nonna called Wherever You Are: my love will find you by Nancy Tillman.  It puts words and beautiful illustrations to the pure, unconditional love we want our kids to find comfort in throughout their lives.  And, each time I read it to Nora or Owen, I am overcome--reminded of my faith and God's message to us as well:

"I wanted you more than you ever will know, so I sent love to follow wherever you go... 

And if someday you're lonely, or someday you're sad, or you strike out at baseball, or think you've been bad...just lift up your face, feel the wind in your hair.  That's me, my sweet baby, my love is right there. 

In the green of the grass...in the smell of the sea...in the clouds floating by...at the top of the tree...in the sound crickets make at the end of the day..."You are loved. You are loved. You are loved," they all say.   

So hold your head high and don't be afraid to march to the front of your own parade.
If you're still my small babe or you're all the way grown, my promise to you is you're never alone. 

You are my angel, my darling, my star...and my love will find you, wherever you are. 

You are loved."