saying goodbye

I tend to be a sappy person by nature, but man, when it comes to my kids growing up there is so. much. sap.

The excitement mingled with nostalgic ache I feel as I watch my little ones stretch and grow is one of my favorite parts of motherhood.  It connects me to my own mother, to this great cycle of life and inspires me to continue to enjoy the small things each and every day.

All of this to say- it has been 10 entire days since my baby girl and I lay side by side in her bed after nighttime prayers, enjoying the beauty and comfort of nursing.  I remember feeling this way when Asher finally let go- this sadness that is also a great marveling at how much my baby has truly grown.

And I know this is a relatively small step in the grand scheme of growing up, but for some reason, to my own mama heart, this is a significant leap into childhood.

Oh baby girl, how our days of nursing have flown by!

six days old- she was a nursing pro from hour one

playing with chubby legs while nursing- love

the sleepy, milk-filled tummy

naptime snuggles

I know we have plenty more hugs, kisses and snuggles in our future as mother and daughter, but I had to stop and take a moment to let myself mourn the end of this season.

These days my sweet girl, you can out-eat your brother and I have started to address you as “young lady” often when your sassy attitude flares in unladylike ways.  I love watching you grow and bloom and can’t wait to reflect back on these early days with you when you are grown and possibly have babies of your own.

I love you and will always be here for you- however you may need me.

xo,

Mama