Dear Jake,
Today marks your 6-month milestone, a moment that feels both fleeting and timeless. As I reflect on these past months, it amazes me how you’ve seamlessly filled the space in our family, as if you’ve always been a part of us.
Looking back at these six months, I feel incredibly fortunate. You are the most wonderful baby, blessed with a calm and joyful disposition that I hope you carry with you throughout your life. From the moment you entered this world, you’ve been a source of tranquility and happiness. Honestly, as I sit here trying to recall the times you’ve cried, I can hardly count them on one hand. You eat, sleep, and smile with such ease. As your dad likes to say, “You can’t spell smiles without Jake.”
Your happiness shines through in every interaction, and nothing compares to the delight of kissing your chubby cheeks while seeing your face light up with joy.
I knew before you came into my life that accepting this would be the last time I’d experience the newborn stage would be challenging. But I am grateful every day that you are my last baby. Your easy-going nature allows me to savor every second. For years, strangers have advised me to “enjoy it; it goes too fast.” I used to find that saying irritating, but now I appreciate their wisdom and am grateful for the chance to cherish each moment of these past six months.
I vividly recall your older sister’s 6-month birthday. Dressed in her fanciest outfit, I showered her with gifts and threw a mini celebration at home. I was ecstatic, fully aware of the milestones she was about to reach—crawling, walking, talking. It felt like a monumental occasion. Yet, in the blink of an eye, I found myself shopping for her first-grade supplies.
Understanding how swiftly time passes, I am committed to enjoying every moment with you. There are days when I feel as though I’m racing against time, struggling to keep up. But you make it easy to pause and soak in every precious second. Even during hectic days filled with Bible camp and swim lessons in sweltering heat, your smile remains unwavering.
There are moments when I tear up as you wiggle out of your swaddle—this will be the last time I have to swaddle a baby. Yet, you giggle and bring a smile to my face. At night, when you’re ready to settle in, you curl up in my arms, as if you understand that I’m not ready to let you go just yet.
I know it’s time for you to transition into your own space, but I find myself peeking at your sweet face each morning, still smiling in your sleep. If only I could gather your siblings back into their cribs for just one more night, I would. So, for now, I’ll keep you close for a little while longer.
I celebrate each of your firsts with joy, just as I did for your siblings. But I also feel a pang of sadness because each milestone signifies the closing of cherished chapters in my life. While I’ll always root for you to achieve the next big thing, know that I’ll do it with a lump in my throat, as you are my final baby.
My wish for you is to carry the same happiness you radiate today throughout your life. Your joy is infectious, brightening the spirits of everyone around you. In these past months, I truly believe that our entire family smiles a little brighter thanks to you. Your presence has filled our hearts with an unparalleled joy, completing our family in the most beautiful way. For this, I am immensely grateful, Jake.
With all my love,
Mom