Son,

You were my little secret once. Even before the rest of the world knew about you, you had already occupied a huge part of my heart that no one else could and were central in my biggest dreams, my greatest hopes, and my most fervent prayers.

You see, at that precise moment, you were mine and mine alone. As selfish as that may sound, for a while, it all made complete sense to me.

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Until one day, I had the privilege of introducing you to the outside world. You were so tiny, and as I held you close, my whole life fell into place, my heart burst with love for you beyond my imagination, and our little family had grown by the most precious little heartbeat.

For 731 days, I have longingly watched you grow and carried you distances beyond the miles, and you see, you have given my heart a reason to keep on beating.

It’s true what they say that the days are long but the years are short. Someday, my arms won’t be strong enough to carry you, you’ll be too big to hold close as you bounce on my lap, you’ll read stories and draw pictures on your own, but for now, for as long as I can keep it this way, I will commit to memory your sparkling eyes, your giggles I can never get enough of, and the few words and many ways you remind me I am loved. 

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When that day comes though, if there’s one thing I want you to know, it’s that no matter how grown up you get or how much I have aged, you will always be my baby and I will always be mommy. There’s a part of me that will always live through you and a part of you that will always live in me—no matter what.

Happy birthday, Son. I love you.