Addison Claire,
I’m sitting in a hospital bed, watching you sound asleep across the room in your daddy’s arms. It is so hard to comprehend that a few hours ago, I was just Jenny, a 24-year-old wife, blogger, child of God. But now I’m a mom. Your mom. And even though it was just a few hours ago, life without you seems inconceivable.
I’ve learned so much in this life, between different life experiences, lessons on the playground in elementary school, and several college lectures. But I’m starting to realize there is so much that I never knew before your presence graced our lives.
I never knew a love like this existed. I love your dad, and I love Friday nights at home. I love ice cream on a hot summer day, and I love Sunday afternoon drives. But I’ve never known a love that makes my heart want to explode. And that is the kind of love I feel when I look at you.
I never knew that birthing a child would be the hardest, yet most rewarding thing I’ve encountered in my life. I spent hours preparing for this special day, and I never could have predicted what this experience would be like. You came in the most perfect way, I can’t wait to share all the wonderful details of your birth day with you someday when you become a mom.
I never knew what it was like to be half asleep all night long. Anytime you move, or make the smallest sound, I’m instantly awake. It’s the best kind of exhausted.
I never knew your dad was such a gentle soul. I see your dad as a hard worker, with callused hands and dirty fingernails. But he completed melted the moment you were born. You already have him wrapped around your tiny fingers.
I never knew a baby’s first poop was so disgusting. I’ve changed many many diapers, but never a newborn baby’s diaper. Even so, every part of you is still absolutely adorable.
I never knew how scary the world is. I watch the news regularly, and I’ve always been aware of what was going on, but I’m scared to death that someone as tiny and innocent as you will have to face the scary truths that plague our country and world today.
And I never knew how great God’s sacrifice in giving up His only son was. I look at you and I can’t imagine giving you up for anything, and God willingly gave His son so that you, my beautiful daughter, could have everlasting life in Him.
I am so blessed to be your Mommy, and I can’t wait to see where this adventure takes us. Before today, I never knew you. And after today, I can’t imagine life without you in it.
Love,
Mom
