Two Whole Years!

Dear Ben,
I've just written a long narrative of our experience when we found out you were coming to join our family. Now, let me tell you what it has been like to have you here - complete joy!! Today, Feb. 22nd, 2009, is your 2nd birthday. I can't believe it has only been two years since you came to our family. I've loved being your mother and look forward to what the future has in store for you.

Ben, you are my surprise, the cherry on top of my ice cream sundae, the unexpected present under the tree, the $20 in my pocket I didn't know was there. You were that way in the beginning and you are that way every day of your life. When we found out you were a boy I didn't know what to think. I only knew what to do with a girl. Those fears are long gone now and I love to try to see the world through your little boy's eyes. Airplanes over head inspire "awe", bugs are treasures to be given to your mommy, balls are every day essentials and exploring your world is your favorite activity. I also love your sweet tender side. You are the first to give kisses when someone cries, you love to give hugs whenever you see your friends and cuddling with you in the middle of the night doesn't bother me a bit.

During your first couple months of life, I would hold you in my arms and study your face. Sometimes I felt as if I could see into the future. I would see a little boy with scratches on his face from his many adventures. I saw a little boy who loved to laugh and play games. Mostly, however, I would see the face of a noble son of our Father in Heaven, sent here to perform a marvelous mission for our Savior. "Why do I get to be his mother?" I would ask myself. I felt so honored as I still do today.

I must add here that you do cause a lot of mischief and if I sit down for even one second I usually regret it because you have found a way to create a spectacular mess somewhere. I'm told I'll miss these years and I'm sure I will. My apologies to your future wife, because you will have a son just like yourself! :) I wouldn't want you any other way though. You brighten our home and fill my heart with joy. Thank you, thank you, thank you for coming to our family. We needed you and I'm sure that we'll understand this more and more as the years go by.

"If you weren't my little boy, there would be a hole in my heart. A piece would be gone, I just couldn't go on, my heart would be searching for you."
I love you Benjamin Thomas Love. Happy Birthday!
Love,
Mommy