Dear Abraham,
When you were born, an innate love for you was born at the same time. There were plenty of days that I didn’t like you and I wasn’t even sure that I could be a mom; maybe this had all been a huge mistake. But the love wasn’t ever in question.
Today you are 18 months old. A year and a half. And there aren’t enough words, enough letters on this keyboard, to express how much I love you. It got bigger. It’s become a part of my DNA. You’re in my bones. And when I’m not near you, you’re still there…like we’re still attached without the physical. It’s pretty much the most overwhelming feeling I’ve ever experienced. So thanks, for that.
You are interested. Interested in everything. You take your time and examine your surroundings and the subjects around you. You already demonstrate a propensity for liking things, “Just so.” I wonder where you get that from?
You love cars. Real cars, toy cars, matchbox cars, any kind of car. You will spend 30 minutes in the garage just inspecting every square inch of the cars we own. And, obviously, you aren’t afraid to get your hands dirty.
Being outside is the greatest. If you are inside for too long, you tell me. If you could spend an entire day running in grass, exploring dirt, or eating leaves, you would do it. I have to leave the front door open and the porch gate locked so that you can wander in and out as you please during the day. Your dad and I are having a separate fence gate built in the back yard so you can wander freely back there, too.
Contrary to your father and I at younger ages, you love books. You bring us books to read and, sometimes, you gather up a few and sit on the dog beds to “read” them to yourself. We hope you continue that love of books and stories, as it now plays such a huge part in your dad and I’s life.
Animals! You love animals! We went to the science museum and you weren’t even particularly interested in the hands-on sciency type things. You wanted to hang out in the reptile room to watch the snakes! You loved your first visit to the zoo and every dog or cat you meet is your new best friend. Just remember to be gentle.
I could go on and on about your smile that lights up your whole face, you words that are just starting to creep out (“eat!”), and your willingness to go with just about any flow. You learn so quickly and practice often. I think my favorite time of day is when I pick you up from school and walk with you to the car. You seem older each time I get you. You eat well, sleep well, and play hard. I hope you do that forever.
Congratulations on becoming a little boy. As I tell you every morning, I love you too much. And always will.
Love,
Mom