Today I am thankful for “cuddles” with Emma. The few nights J. was away this week, Em ended up sleeping with me in “the big bed.” I complain rather loudly about sleeping with her, but really it is all for show. I love it when she sleeps with me. It means I don’t get to stretch out and take over the bed. It means I don’t get to read before I turn in. But, besides J., there is nobody else in the world I would rather snuggle with than Emma.

Her sweet, hot breath on my cheek. Her little, contented, sleepy sighs. Even the feel of her pointy little feet in my ribs. They are all happy reminders that she is there. And I know she is just as happy to be next to me, as I am next to her.

Last night J. was coming home, so I had to put her to bed in her own bed and I was just a wee bit sad. But we “cuddled” a bit in her bed and as I was hugging her, I told her “I love you.” Then she ran her hand through my hair, clung to me tightly and whispered, “I love you so much, Mama.” I am so thankful for those miraculously sweet cuddles and whispered proclamations. It is those things, those cherished, breathtaking moments, that nobody can ever fully prepare you for.