Dear Scout,
It was September 20th, 2012 at 5:26pm. My gown was soaked in heavy sweat, my face covered in tears. We made it through 18 hours of labor. You were finally, finally here.
As I extended my arms to hold you for the first time, I instead watched you being carried away. The umbilical cord had made its way around your petite, fragile neck, resulting in emergency care. You were immediately taken to a small plastic bed, with several doctors by your side. I had nurses holding my hands, trying to settle my fears by ensuring you would be just fine.
I stared at you from across the room, never blinking or turning away. And after two minutes of what seemed like a lifetime, I finally heard you scream. My heart had sunk in relief, overjoyed to hear the sounds of your cry. It was in that moment, I understood who I'd just become. Your pain was my pain. Your cries were my cries. And your happiness was my happiness.
I was your mom.
From that day on, your well-being was at the forefront of my decisions. You gave me a title that altered my entire world.
Nothing else mattered.
It is now September 20th, 2017. You are five. Five years old.
I walk with such pride, seeing you evolve.
You have obtained a limitless personality and a free spirited mind. You remind me daily to see the world through a wider lens.
You are self-sufficient. You have an internal fire to make everything your own.
You spread kindness. You don’t judge a single living being. You embrace anyone and everyone.
Your heart continues to grow.
You have an eclectic taste, and creative quirks. Those traits generate your unique soul.
I am continuously learning from you. You've taught me patience, and to believe in the good of myself and others. To be mindful, and to always remain true.
We've grown together, me and you.
"She was one of the rare ones, so effortlessly herself, and the world loved her for it" - Atticus
Thank you for being you.
Happy Birthday, Scouty
I love you
