Dear Preston

Sweet Preston,

When I think about how much I love you, my heart bursts, and my eyes are likely to well up. I can't possibly imagine life without you, and yet, you've only been in our lives for 2 short years. Stuart and I must be the luckiest parents on earth, and I am thankful for you beyond words. I honestly don't know what I did to deserve you. In fact, I know I don't. That is why I want to give you every opportunity to thrive, explore, learn, love, and even make mistakes, that will shape who you are and who you will become.

Your favorite sayings right now are, "Try again," "Preston do it," and "One more time," which illustrate your growing independence. Almost every single day I get a report from your teachers telling me how much you warm their hearts when you exclaim, "Hey Monica! What's goin' on?" Or how impressed they are when you are laying on the changing table pointing out the letters, correctly, and in order, of the "Artist of the Month" displayed on the bulletin board. This month it is, "L-O-I-S,  E-H-L-E-R-T." Or how about when you announce the day of the week before Mr. Shippey even says it on the morning announcements? (Really? you can do that?) I am constantly amazed, and throughout even the "off" days, I can look into your baby blues or glance at your sweet profile and be content.

Lately, you've been much more attentive to my growing belly, your baby sister "Kenneny," and you even want to rub my back when I'm putting you down to sleep. I told your dad that as good as his back rubs are, nothing is as relaxing as your sweet touches on my arm at night or the gentle kisses you give my tummy. You are the best son for us and the best big brother for Kennedy. I can't thank you enough for the joy you have brought into our lives.

As long as I'm living my baby you'll be,

Mommy