Moments

Life is made up of moments. Some insignificant, some inspirational, but all amazing. If we're lucky, our days are made up of more delightful moments than dull ones. My days are made up of these - moments I get to spend with my daughter, watching her learn, watching her grow, watching her transform into a little girl who will one day call me, Mom. 

There are a few moments in every day that are, by far, my favs:

1. The first smile she gives me in the morning. Jesse spends his first waking moments feeding our little Sugar Butt, allowing me an extra few minutes to sleep and wakes me with a gentle "We're almost finished, Mom" over the monitor. Some days I want to chuck that monitor against the wall and pull the covers over my head. But alas, I drag myself out of bed - I loathe the morning - brush my teeth - I'm not a morning person - and begin to wash my face - mornings are tough. About that time, Dad and L join me in the bathroom. I rarely see it straight on, it usually comes from her reflection in the mirror, but there it is, that smile of recognition. That smile that says 'I remember you, I love you' (favorite moment). That smile of recognition is better than any stout cup of coffee with an extra shot of espresso. That smile of recognition makes getting out of bed more than worth it. That smile of recognition is what I live for. 

2. The morning nap. Sugar Butt is officially on the move. She can't crawl but she rolls all over the hardwoods and always finds a corner to get stuck in or a toy too far away. So as soon as we exit the loo, it's game time. L is ready to play and will not sit still until she hits a wall - about two hours later. We venture to her room and lay down for a nip nap.  There are a few minutes of chatting or crying and then she's out. There is quiet. Coffee goes in the microwave for the first or many times this morning and I sit (favorite moment). Some naps are spent with Natalie, Al, Willie, and Tamron. Some are spent in silence watching L sleep and listening to the pups dream. Today is spent with you.

3. The hour or so Dad gets to spend with her at night. Watching the loves of my life play together is, hands down, my most favorite moment. It is the most special of all the special moments.I spend the day thinking that my love cup is full but when Dad takes that little girl in his arms, it overflows. His laughter and her giggles are the best sounds in the world. How did I get so lucky? Why do I get to be a part of this wondrous little herd?  

These are the moments I can't live without. These are the moments I dream of.

What are your favorite moments?