Happy Mother's Day!!!

There's a lot of debate about whether or not expectant mommy's are in fact considered "mothers" yet, and whether or not we are deserving of recognition on Mother's Day.

Here is where Daddy and I stand... 

Of course we are aware that next year will bring a different set of joys and emotions and pride when Mother's and Father's Day roll around, and we will be able to wake up to a smiling (not screaming!), mobile little baby girl. We know that the responsibilities of parents of an "outside baby" far outweigh the responsibilities of parents of an "inside baby". But here's the thing: You are still our baby, Camryn. You are still a living, growing, squirming sweet girl, whether or not we are waken up in the middle of the night by your cries. Whether or not we are charged with physically feeding you every few hours and changing your diapers. You are a very real presence in our lives, and every decision we make everyday is somehow traced back to what would be best for you. I am your mother now, and Daddy is your father. We couldn't imagine moving through this day (or Father's Day) without acknowledging all the ways you've already changed and enriched our lives, and how much we so love having you with us. 

Today has been a wonderful day so far. 

We woke up and spent a few minutes feeling you stretch and wiggle before getting up to get ready for church. 

While Mommy was in the shower, Daddy came in and laid a card on the bathroom counter. I didn't expect him to get anything for me today (we are celebrating Mother's and Father's Day at the end of the month with a half-day at the spa), but reading the card choked me up a bit. Apparently you, sweet baby girl, told Daddy what to write, and it was so, so sweet to read my note "from you". I love you Camryn, and your Daddy for doing that. 

The youth at church handed flowers out to each of the mommy's (including the expectant ones!) and the service acknowledged how amazing mothers are in the world. 

After church we went with Daddy's whole family to enjoy a wonderful lunch at Pappadeux. Yummy. While we were there, you grandma (Naw-Naw) gave me such a sweet gift: the James Avery "Mother's Love" charm for my JA necklace. I love it. The whole family is so excited about meeting you, Camryn. Your Aunt A and your Aunt C (and their families) gave me some very nice cards, as well. 

Once we got home, Daddy and I decided we should take some special Mother's Day pictures of Mommy's growing belly in your nursery, and I just can't believe how much you've grown already. I spend lots of time each day staring down at my belly.. but seeing those profile pictures always surprise me! 

I am so glad we have had such an enjoyable day. Our weekend really started out a little rough, with our air conditioner going out Friday afternoon (when it was in the 90's outside!!). We spent the night in a hotel that night so Mommy could get at least a little comfortable sleep, and dealt with an A/C repair man Saturday morning, who shocked us with a bill that was a bit difficult to swallow. After all the stress surrounding that unexpected situation, we spent Saturday evening relaxing on the couch and munching down on a delicious dinner of grilled chicken and grilled squash & zucchini (compliments of your Daddy). That's when the weekend finally started looking up again, just in time to celebrate Mother's Day with smiles on our faces. 

Camryn, my little love, I can't help but think about what this day will be like next year, and all the years to come. I can't wait to meet you baby girl, to see your sweet face, and kiss your chubby cheeks. I can't wait to wake up on Mother's Day next year and get to cuddle you and love you and celebrate just what a blessing you are in my life. 

We love you so much, Camy. More than you will ever know. 

It's been wonderful today to dream about all the Mother's Days with you I have to look forward to in the future.

If I could kiss you sweet girl, I would.