to my boy, a few days after mother's day

My sweet Jack,

You are 7 months old today! I didn't take your official picture or figure out your weight or write down all the things that you're doing right now that I love so much, because there have been other things on my list. Like dealing with a basement that flooded for the second time in just a few days. Your special post will come, but in the meantime, your mama needs a break from the things from today.

And you are my break.

My first Mother's Day was an adventure. We surprised GG (my Nanny) in Black Mountain for the weekend. We spent days enjoying each other and enjoying you. I loved being surrounded by the most amazing women I know on Mother's Day - I couldn't think of a better way to spend that day than with some of the women who have been and are still teaching me how to be a mama.

Later that day, when I was nursing you before bed and you put your hand on my cheek, I couldn't help but cry a little. What a gift you've given me, little boy. This love and this joy. It's unspeakable and I feel so thankful.

When I hugged your Nana goodbye, she was in tears because she misses me and didn't want me to leave. I used to think that sort of thing was crazy. People come and go, you know? But that day, I knew exactly where those tears came from. They well up inside of you from a place that you didn't know existed until that baby puts his hand on your cheek. It's an ache. I get it now, mama. Now I know what it's like to see your heart on the outside.

Jack, you are a gem. And I don't know what I'd do without you, especially this week. You've flashed that smile and laid your head on my shoulder at all the right times.

Here's to you, precious boy.