Dear Grace,

Yesterday you had your 4 month old shots. It was traumatizing...for you AND me. I wish I could have convinced the nurse to give me the shots instead. Those big crocodile tears welled up in your blue eyes and broke my heart to pieces. I picked you up and your little fists clung to my shirt sleeves and you cried into my neck. Even on the way home, you just wimpered and wailed, telling me all about what that mean nurse did to you and how you never wanted to go back.

I understood.

But, here at home, I nursed your fever with some tylenol and some snuggles. You fell asleep in my lap all curved into my body, and I couldn't bear to put you in your crib for your nap.

You see, Grace, someday you will be older and less snuggly, and I will have to fight you for my hugs and kisses. Things will be different, but I will still crave my little girl cuddles. So yesterday, I let you sleep in my arms for hours...because I could...and because someday you won't let me.

And I hope you remember, now and then, that I will always and forever want your love and snuzzles no matter how old you are, or how uncool I become.

I love you,

Mom