Did Ya Ever Fall in Love Again?

WARNING: SAPPY POST!
(you've been warned)

Have you ever caught yourself looking at one of your kids and just melting inside? That happened to me tonight with James. It was shortly after Robby had created World War III with Anna and Ella by taunting them with his new Aunt Monica (harmonica). And it was just before Ella threw a fit worthy of an Oscar because she wanted a hug from Mommy before bed.

I had just kissed his skinned knee and told him that it would be okay and he just looked at me and said, "Daddy - I really love you." It was one of those moments when you feel utterly responsible for this little life that is in front of you. It was completely unprompted and he didn't want anything from me in return. (That's often a game my kids play... I want a cookie therefore - Daddy, I love you... now gimme a cookie, man.) I'm not sure why it got to me - perhaps because he caught me unaware at a moment when I was able to give him my undivided attention. He looked at me with his glasses on the tip of his nose and just said it.


I remember a specific time in the NICU, holding James and trying to get him to take a bottle (this was before they learned how to suck.) I thought to myself, "I'm so lucky to be able to hold this little guy in my arms and be able to look around and see three other babies just waiting for their turn. I'm never going to be short of love in my life."



Today he proved it. I love you too, buddy!