We are theirs and that is all they need. Our people love us just the way we are.

I wasn’t ready to be a mom of older children, just yet. To let go of the baby smells, the snuggles, and the closeness of them in my arms.

Maybe strength is relative.

How can I do this? How can I carry everything?

But there’s a line. I would never insist that my little daughter hand over her prized possession for a pal to play with.

It’s a little disappointing to see my almost 2.5 year old only take a handful of steps these last months.

Some days, more and more, you choose your own steps, no longer tied to me, looking back with pride. 

Instead of cherish every moment, I hope I remember to tell my new mom friends that it won’t always be this hard, or maybe it will, but you will get through it.

How long before she turns to us and asks to ring doorbells alone? How long before we “become lame,” before the whole damn day becomes lame?

Wearing you, with your fringe around the angle and peep toe, will help build my confidence to affirm that I’m more than a mom – I’m still me?