Dear Ellerie,
You are nearly six months old and the coolest little person I have ever met. I'm taking time today to make a note of some of my favorite things about you at this age.
I want to remember how upbeat you are each morning when I come into your room. After 12.5 hours of sleep (!!!!!), you beam up at me from your crib and your eyes shine with recognition. "It's you!" they sparkle. "And you found me!" Every morning you're thrilled (and very anxious to eat).
I want to remember how you burrow into my chest and neck after your breakfast. You rub your face on my robe and babble quietly to yourself. It's like you're telling me your plans for the day. Or more likely re-discovering your voice after a long night of quiet. The sounds make no sense but the tone is so peaceful and endearing.
I want to remember how as we walk though the house you help me "carry" whatever I'm holding. Your hand reaches out and secures to everything - your bottle, my water glass, my coffee mug, a book. It's the same thing when we go out to get the mail. You always "help" me bring the pile inside. I'm not sure if in your head you're assisting or staking your claim or just simply enjoying being a part of the team.
I want to remember how you smile for Dad when he gets home from work each evening. You get it. You get that he's your Dad and that he came home. He has eyes for only you as he walks through the door and you light up brighter than our Christmas tree at his voice.
I want to remember how you squirm when we enter the bathroom and I run the water for your bath. Bathtime is your favorite time. Your excited body shakes and wiggles in anticipation and you practically lunge toward the tub.
I want to remember how easy it is to calm you down these days. When you're fussy, I launch into The Itsy Bitsy Spider and you immediately quiet and grin. I feel like my singing voice has super powers and marvel every time this silly song works on you. In order, your favorite songs are, The Itsy Bitsy Spider, the lullaby your pink horse plays at bedtime and the Parks and Recreation theme song. All of them command your full attention.
I want to remember how you stare at your hands with fascination. You're still my tiny conductor, only now you are aware that you're conducting. I feel like I can see the neurons fire in your brain as you begin to connect with the fact that you're controlling these dancing items. It is so cool. The other night you moved a toy with your left hand and your right hand chased after it as if you're still catching on that both of those special hands belong to you.
I want to remember this period of time where everyday something is noticeably different. You sit up a little longer. You coordinate your movement a little smoother. You talk a little louder. You laugh a little deeper. You look at me with greater understanding. I marvel daily at the speed in which you are developing. And everyday I feel so blessed that we are here, that we made it to this day and are thriving.
I love you so much. Happy half birthday, Ellerie Eve.
yours forever, Mama.
