A mother’s love letter to the baby years.

I have a name that I haven’t always had. And sadly, I know I won’t be able to keep. It’s the most beautiful name in its strength, and yet so fragile it will soon start slipping away. The sound it makes coming from your sweet little voice pierces my heart.

Mommy. Mama. No one can really describe what an incredible feeling it is to be called this by you. From the first time you made those sounds, to when you called to me and only me in the dark.

But whenever I hear my new name, I’m reminded of how short this journey is and how much more room there still is for growth.

No doubt I have earned this title. I’ve nourished both body and spirit since the day you arrived. But whenever I hear my new name, I’m reminded of how short this journey is and how much more room left there still is for growth. The path of motherhood surely has moments of pride, but the everyday is made of small steps towards humility.

The humility it takes to care so deeply for another person. The humility it takes to ask forgiveness. To right wrongs. To give all of myself to you. And the humility it takes to let you gain your own independence through choice and accountability. The humility it takes to give up the name I have so cherished in these beginning years.

To become ‘Mom.’

Don’t get me wrong—being called ‘Mom’ is just as special and wonderful. After all, once I have earned it, I get to keep it forever. It’s the name of carer who has built confidence and strength in another person and then loved them enough to allow them to begin to let go.

But ‘Mommy,‘ doesn’t last long. It’s heartbreakingly fleeting

But ‘Mommy,‘ doesn’t last long. It’s heartbreakingly fleeting. Which means I need to cherish it in these fading moments of our relationship as mommy and baby.

I will surrender myself to loving you and giving you what you need. Be it play, space, warm hugs, or firmness. I will be there as your ‘Mama’ your ‘Mommy.’ Because one day I will be left with only memories of this time together, and the new path we will share together as mom and child.