For Tricia, and my other "new mom" friends

Laura, Laurie, Lauren, Susi and others who might not want to be mentioned on here... I love watching your journeys and I get almost excited about the things your kids are doing and how they're growing as I do about my own. Trisha, for you in particular! The tough times you've gone through to bring Gwenyth into the world will all be worth it-- I promise you! As women, we are given the gift of being able to participate in an amazing and unique in the process of God's creation of new life. It's so wonderful!

Things I can't wait for you to experience:

Her first "date" with Daddy

Realizing that she laughs just like you

Hearing your husband say "You look just like your mommy!"

Watching her ride a bike for the first time

Hearing your husband say "my son!" What a thrill!

Super frilly dresses

having all the furniture in your living room pushed to the edges to make room for a "stage" so she can "practice" ballet.

Looking up videos of Swan Lake on Youtube

Reading together-- and then, wonder of wonders, being read to!

Rocking a sleeping toddler in the middle of the night

Watching child number one play with child number two

the realization that poop on your hands and clothes no longer makes you feel ill

noticing that boys really ARE different from girls and the "snakes and snails" analogy has some validity

kissing boo-boos and having them really get better!

Trying to explain why she has to share her toys with her friends, but you don't have to share your wine with her

Braids and ponytails

A Valentine Card-making party and the subsequent glitter glue all over your couch and chairs and coffee table

Tea parties, with real tea and "can I pour it myself, Mommy?" and watching her crook her little finger out to the side as she sips-- just like you...

and many more beautiful moments...