{K at Two Months Old}

Dear Kaia,

You are two. I have no idea how that happened! True to form, I am in denial that you are getting older. My denial started awhile back when you turned…maybe…a week old? I didn’t want you turning even one week old, because I knew that time would quickly spiral out of my reach. And it has. I can’t bear to think of you growing up. But, at the same time, watching you grow, learn, and discover the world around you is the most awe-inspiring privilege of my life.

You came into this world fast and furious. Since your earliest days, your eyes have been wide open observing everything and everyone. You are your own person. For that, I admire you. At 34, I still have trouble with it. You trust only a few, but are friendly with most. You have the best laugh. You’ve been known to stick to your guns and flash dirty looks on occasion which goes hand in hand with your sass. You are quick to give hugs and high fives and fist bumps, but you reserve kisses on the lips for mama and daddy only. You love your grandparents and your uncles. You love all animals, especially bears, giraffes, dogs, and cats.

Around your first birthday, I wasted time wondering why you hadn’t gotten off your baby bottom and started walking. Then, shortly after that, we couldn’t get you to stop walking. Earlier this year, I again, wasted more time wondering why you hadn’t found your voice or put words to your thoughts and emotions yet. Now we can’t get you to stop talking! Lesson learned. I have to trust you and trust the process of individual growth. I hope I remember this well into the future – not to push you too hard and have faith that you will figure things out on your own with our unconditional love and support to back you up.

You are our miracle baby and now our miracle child. You were merely a grain of rice on a grainy ultrasound monitor when we first fell in love with you. Every day since, you’ve brought smiles and light into our lives and we are so grateful and thankful.

Don’t ever change. Continue to be your own person. March to the beat of your own drum. Never let that fire of curiosity die down. Love yourself and your body. Know that no one on this Earth will love you like your parents love you. Daddy and I are your biggest fans, and we can’t wait to see what is in store for you this upcoming year!

I love you,

Your Mama