Sweet third child, your presence flooded our lives with abundance.

The kind of abundance God promises—that pressed down, shaken together, and running over kind of abundance.

I will never forget bringing you into this world. Pain coursed through my body as I searched your father’s eyes for comfort. I kept telling him, “How are we going to do this? How are we going to do this?” Within moments I received my answer, in the form of your sweet cry. I brought you up onto my chest and felt wave after wave of deep love flood out my doubts. I held you close to my heart and praised God for choosing me to be your mamma.

Sweet third child, it wasn’t always easy, but it was always worth it.

Even though the transition from two to three was a bit of a challenge, we were elated about bringing your sweet little face home with us.

RELATED: To My Firstborn as We Become a Family of Five

The long night feedings coupled with your siblings early morning wake-ups wore at me. After weeks of no sleep, I felt depleted. I didn’t know if I had enough to give all three of you, and it truly frightened me. I cried a lot in the beginning, but over time it got a little easier, and sweet baby, it was worth every moment.

I watch you now and wonder how we ever did life without you.

You came in and filled this black hole in my heart with love. You get much less attention than the other two did when they were this little, but it doesn’t phase you. Your little 18-month-old body waddles from room to room with only one mission, to make everyone smile. You pick up toys and clean up spills. You crawl into my arms and hold a steady cuddle because sweet child, God knew exactly what kind of kid your mamma needed.

RELATED: To the Mom of a Big Family, Your Heart Was Made For Many

I am so thankful for the love God brought into our lives when He knit you together. I watch from the sidelines as you love your siblings fiercely. When there is a cry for help or a skinned knee, you are first on the scene. Kisses and hugs are administered without question, and you typically yield greater results than your mamma does in the ouchie department.

Watching you care for those you love gives me a glimpse into your future, sweet child.

I see a passionate person, who will bring so much to the Kingdom of God. I see a warm husband, who loves his wife unconditionally. I see a father who won’t hold back one ounce of affection from his children. I see mountains moved and valleys crossed with your unbridled faith.

RELATED: Siblings Share a Bond For Life

In short, sweet third child, I see a force of love to be reckoned with.

The day we found out we were going from a family of four to five, we had no idea what to expect. We knew we would get through the struggle, but there were times we were worried.

Worried about loving you enough.

Worried about giving you enough attention.

Worried about your well-being.

Then, you came, and dear child, we just had no idea.

You came into our lives and opened your whole heart up to our family. Without hesitation, you took your role in our family unit and began changing our lives.

You taught us what it’s like to love with no bounds. You showed the importance of quality versus quantity, and dear child, I will forever be grateful for your life.

Dear sweet third child, we love you, and we are excited to see what your life brings.