And Now You Are 9

I miss these days...

 the giggle of baby girls

 the sweet plumpness of fresh baby arms and legs

the soft murmurings of baby babble

And now you are 9 and I am shaking my head at the years, and how scientists talk about the speed of light as though it does not exist right in front of us. In the speed of light you  - chunky monkeys, sweet pumpkins, darling doves - have gone from me.
And in your places, in your places have sprung strange new creatures with varied and curious opinions and feelings, and an abundance of drama and expression.

Be kind, my lovelies

Be strong and kind

Empathetic and expressive

Whatever you do, believe in it wholeheartedly

Treat your friends loyally

Stand with your brothers

Do the best you can, and work diligently

And always, always

brush your hair

With all my love,

Mommy