The Gift

Today my daughter had me in a state of awe, the entire day.  Everything she did today seemed to be especially amazing, and made her even more beautiful.  All of a sudden she seemed to be such a big girl, no trace of baby at all, and even though I would have sworn it wasn’t possible, I am more in love with her now than ever before.

All morning long, Nick and I continuously made eye contact across the room, silently saying “Did you just see that?”  Everything she said or did hinted at the young woman she would become.  I could almost see this other version of herself, shadowed across her young features.  We were caught up in a wave of nostalgia for the baby we brought in to the world, juxtaposed with amazement for this vibrant little girl we somehow managed to create, and the incredible woman we knew was coming. 

At one point Tes was at the coffee table playing games on my lap top.  We couldn’t help but reminisce about when she barely peaked over the top of the table, standing on wobbly legs.  Tessie asked if she could take pictures on the computer and I turned on Photo Booth, the camera app on the lap top.  It takes pictures by counting down from three.  Of course Tessie was well aware of that, as well as all the different effects available.  I, however, was caught completely off guard when she hit the camera button then struck a pose, and held it, until the shutter sounded.  She took picture after picture, all ridiculously adorable.  I loved every second of it.

As I was showing the photo shoot to Nick, we started to look back into older pictures of Tes.  I cuddled up next to him on the couch, and Tes claimed his other side.  We looked at pictures and videos of our daughter, from about eighteen months to two years, laughing out loud at her silliness and love of the limelight.  Not a thing has changed.  I suspect it never will.  She loved all the pictures, and of course had to go back and show us all her favorites. 

We had a wonderful evening, full of sweet moments.  I found myself staring at her on several occasions, in awe of how beautiful and amazing she is.  The day was free of our common stand-offs and instead we had extra snuggles, kisses, and giggles.  As I was tucking her into bed I found myself telling her an extra-long story, instead of hurrying to turn out the light.  I kissed her goodnight and let my lips linger on her forehead.  How quickly will these moments disappear?  I hate to even think of it.  I whispered goodnight and closed her door quietly behind me, grateful for the gift she gave me of this beautiful day.

The Photo Shoot