Letters to my Children · September 2014

“While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about.” -Angela Schwindt

My Dear Children,

It has been such a blessing watching your relationship blossom these past six months. Daniel, I am so thankful that you welcomed Emma into our family with open arms and loved her even before you met her. I was prepared for the worst, but there were no typical older sibling outbursts of jealously or aggression. Even though we are still working on fully comprehending the meaning of the word “gentle,” your love for her is pure and intense…I just love how much you love her. You want to spend every waking moment with her and rush into her room the second she gets up. You started calling her “B Emma” (short for “Baby Emma”) and even made up a special “B Emma” song for her which is the cutest thing ever. Emma, your face lights up whenever you see your brother and he makes you laugh like no one else can. It is so sweet how much you look up to him already and want to do whatever he is doing.

Bedtime is one of the more challenging parts of the day for me when your daddy is traveling or working late, but it is also filled with some of the sweetest moments as well. I usually try to read bedtime stories and pray with both of you in Daniel’s room as part of our routine. He always protests when I make him finally say goodnight to you when we are done and he often hugs you and refuses to let go. It is so amazing to watch this sibling bond develop. No one taught you or forced you how to love each other…you just do. This unconditional love is so pure and profound…it is truly inspiring.

I love you both more than words can express and I’m thankful that even though loving and caring for you is the hardest thing I have ever done, it is the most rewarding as well. As the saying goes, “the days are long, but the years are short” and I know I will look back at these seemingly challenging little years one day with nostalgia. Even though I am sleep deprived and exhausted most days, I wouldn’t have it any other way. You both fill me with immense joy and I am truly blessed to be your mama. I love you my sweet babies.

Love,

Mommy

This post is part of a year long project where a group of talented photographers/mothers and I write monthly letters to our children. Please continue the blog circle to see what Christy has written.

Bethany Mattioli Photography specializes in newborn, baby, maternity and family photography in Morgan Hill, CA and surrounding areas including San Jose, Gilroy, Los Gatos and the greater San Francisco Bay Area.