Dearest Ana,
It is so amazing the changes that happen in you in such a short period of time. You’ve gone from being this sweet little baby to this sweet little, well, baby, but bigger!
I feel like sometimes I complain a lot about general motherhood things, but the truth is that I love being your mama. I get a giddy pleasure out of the fact that you save your biggest smiles for me. That you are calmed when I hold you. That you kick in happiness when you see me approach you. You, my daughter, you light up my life.
This month has been a little bit crazy. You gave your mama my biggest scare when you decided to cry so hard that you were choking in a short border lineup. I was in tears, you were howling, the border guards thought I was insane. But it’s okay. You were just upset and as soon as I had you in my arms, the crying lessened and then gradually stopped completely.
You rolled over for the first time just three days ago on November 17th. You’re such an independent girl. Your teenage years are going to be brutal, let me tell you. I knew that you were close to rolling over and I was watching you diligently. You were demanding a bottle and I had one warming for you. I walked into the kitchen to grab it, leaving you lying on your back on the floor. Not even a full minute later I was back and guess what? You were on your stomach. You rolled over for the first time when nobody was watching! You’re such a turkey! (By the way, I got the nickname turkey from your Auntie Jacquee. She called Sawyer that when he was your age and I’ve picked up on it. Blame her.)
It’s been really incredible watching you start to pick up on your surroundings. Your little head just bobbles all over the place as you try to soak in all the colors and shapes and sounds that are all around. Your current favorite is watching hockey on the television. This makes your daddy VERY happy. He’s hoping that the love for hockey continues as you grow older.
The same day that you rolled over for the first time, you also laughed. It was such a beautiful sound and your father and I both looked at each other, eyes wide, and then burst into laughter ourselves. It was infectious. You haven’t repeated it since, but I’m hopeful and waiting for it.
Today at your doctor appointment you weighed in at 13 pounds. Wow, baby. You’re growing marvelously.
You are so amazing. I am so blessed to have you. Right this moment you are snoozing in bed, tucked onto your side with your little arm thrown across your face. You are precious. You are mine and I can hardly believe it.
I love you so much.
Love,
Your mama
