To my Beloved Bear…

On the eve of your third birthday, I’m overcome with emotions:

Wonder for the amazing little person you have become.

Gratitude for the privilege of being your mom.

A tinge of sadness that your independence means you need me less.

Guilt for all the meetings that shortened our playtime together, for all the hours I put on the TV because I needed some downtime. 

Fear that I haven’t been enough.

Grief that my baby is virtually gone, as are the days of rocking you to sleep.

Pride for the big boy you’re becoming.

Hope that you’ll always be as kind and big-hearted as you are today.

Love for who you’ve been, who you are, and whoever you may be.