Let Me Count the Ways

I am in love. Last night I was feeling panicky about the daunting task of raising a child. Today I am soothed by the love that he teaches me.

I love the way he says "Mommy" when I go into his room to pick him up from his crib after he wakes up.

I love the way he give me big sloppy toothy open mouth kisses.

I love the way he asks for me to kiss him by pressing his head against my face.

I love the way he mimics my when I say, "I love you." He answers, "illluu."

I love the way he plays peek-a-boo with me, covering his eyes with his arm so he's hidden, and then revealing himself by peeking over his bent little arm.

I love the way he shares his food with me in slobbery bits fresh from his sweet little mouth.

I love the way he leans on me when he's tired.

I love the way he gets me to cuddle when I should be putting him in his bed by laughing at me and making little jokes that only he understands.

I love seeing the things he does that I think he gets from me, like playing in the water.

I love the way he eats corn with such gusto.

I love the way he makes it easier to get up in the morning.

I love the way he introduces me to life.

HBK