Dear Kid, I Can’t Wait to Meet You

Dear Kid,

I watched you running the other day with your friend. I noticed how you jogged along for a few miles, chatting about your days at school. You told each other jokes and laughed at funny stories. Running behind you, watching and listening, I found myself thinking about what an incredible person you have turned into.

I know that lots of parents find themselves wanting time to stop, or at least slow down so that you can stay little forever. While I get where they’re coming from (and if you ever become a parent one day, you will, too), I have to say that I don’t share the sentiment. Every day with you I get to meet a new part of your growing personality and the person you are becoming. I actually go to bed each night thinking that I can’t wait to see who you will be the next day.

When I was pregnant, I found myself wondering what you would be like. I had ideas in my head of the person you would be, and my anticipation grew (along with my belly and my ankles) every week for the day when you would come, for the day when I would get to meet you.

My belly was constantly in motion because you kicked so often. I thought you would be a mover, and I was right. You were always fast, even as a baby. You went from crawling like a little spider monkey, passed through toddling around on chubby little legs, and now you’re running a 5k with lean legs that will one day carry you farther. I can’t wait to see how you’ll use this gift and endurance.

When you were little you laughed at the slightest provocation: a silly face, Mommy dancing, or Daddy blowing on your belly. Now you love to tell jokes and laugh with your friends. Your smile comes easily and is given freely, always lighting up a room and the people around you. I can’t wait to see how you will bring joy to others as you grow up.

You’re a great storyteller. Nothing makes you happier than reading a good book, and you have learned so much from the many stories you have read. You have your daddy’s knack for summing up a story with ease and entertainment, and your mommy’s love of language. Your schoolwork often leads me to giggles, and I love hearing you try out new phrases or rearrange words until they sound just right. I can’t wait to see what you will write and say later on in your life.

You have a good heart. Your easy going nature makes you a friend magnet, and I’m not sure we have ever left a playground without you having one or several new friends. You’re quick to give hugs and always want to make people who are hurting feel better. You will literally give up the jacket you are wearing to someone who needs it. I can’t wait to see what you do to continue spreading joy and love to anyone around you.

Basically kid, you’re pretty amazing. I’ve watched you since you were a teeny baby all the way to now. Each day you have learned something new and grown up just a little more. Each day your personality reveals itself, and you are slowly becoming the person you are meant to be, the person you are making yourself.

As your mom, I am watching closely, ready to give you a nudge this way or that when I think you need it. I am on thelookout for situations when I may need to catch you, or at least break your fall. But mostly, I’m just enjoying watching you grow. I love being there to see your milestones, both the good and bad. I am lucky to witness someone as awesome as you go through life.

I can’t wait to see the middle schooler, high schooler, college student, and adult that you will become. Years later, I find myself constantly in the same situation I was before you were born. I’m enjoying the journey, but I can’t wait to meet the person you will become.

Love,

Mommy