Dear Austin

You have grown to be such an amazing little bugger. Daddy and I adore every waking moment we get to spend with you. And although it may not seem like it at all times we love you more than anything else in this universe, and that's a really big place. So even though we may get angry at you for not listening or you may feel that we are pushing you to do big boy things that you don't always want to do, like go on the potty and fall asleep by yourself at night, and eat big people food, it really truly is only because we love you.

You are going to be a big brother soon and I know there are no words to express just how excited you are to meet your baby sister. I'm sorry that when mama goes out to the store that I don't come back with her because I know this makes you mad. I really hope that she comes soon too so that we can bring her home, and show her all the beautiful presents she's gotten while growing in mama's belly. That will be the coolest day ever for us.

Mama and daddy are going to need your help a lot when she comes home from the hospital and I know you're up for the task because you just can't stop talking about all the fun things we'll get to do, like give her a tubby and change her diaper. Just please do not ever forget how much we love you okay? Because mama might be tired for the first year or two, but I was like that with you too. It just takes a little while. I promise to be running and jumping and tumbling around with you again as fast as I can. Don't loose your sense of adventure and the fire you have right now because that would make me so super sad buddy.

The biggest job you have once baby sister gets here is to be yourself because she needs that awesome person to look up to... daddy and I are okay, but not nearly as funny, imaginative and crazy as you. Okay? Are you ready? I know I am, but I'll miss you when the doctors are helping mommy in the hospital. I think that's the only thing that really makes me sad, that I won't get to see your handsome face first thing in the morning.... I love you buddy. I know I've told you this a hundred times already and you'll probably hear it at least a million more but, you are the greatest big brother in the whole wide world. You're the best my little man.

Love, Mama

I found these lyrics in one of my parenting magazines. It's by the children's singer/songwriter Frances England, who's music I absolutely adore. I thought it was very appropriate for Austin and cannot wait for her new album to be released so I can actually hear the song.

Last night while
everyone was asleep

I looked out my window, up
through the trees

The sky was so big and
covered in stars

I knew a baby brother or
sister would soon be ours

Hey Ho, our family of three

Is growing beyond my
mommy, daddy and me

Hey Ho, just how will it be

When we add another branch
to our family tree?