Under the cherry blossom tree.

Hey Adam, do you remember that day nearly 2 years ago we stood together beneath the cherry blossom tree? Remember how I carried you inside me? I remember that day well. I remember the excitement and anxiousness I felt, wondering when you would be born. I remember how much I already loved you. I want you to know, Adam, that whenever I see a cherry blossom tree, I think of that day. And you do know what? Just thinking about it right now is making me cry. Everyone is asleep and I'm sitting here in the dark of the night thinking about you with silent tears streaming down my face. You, my sweet boy, are extraordinary.

When we went to Daddy's school last week and you ran over to the cherry blossom trees, my heart skipped a beat. Did you know how special those cherry blossom trees are to me? Do you know how special you are to me? You and I have been having a bit of a rough time lately--you becoming quite the strong-willed, independent little tyke and me feeling flustered and helpless on how to understand you. But then there's sweet moments like this, sweet moments for us to reconnect.

I was telling your dad the other day that I feel the most successful and happiest as a mother when I have undivided, personal time with each of my children throughout the day. Like remember yesterday when Asher was napping and we were chasing each other and laughing? You kept trying to hop on my back and I'd tickle you right beneath my ribs. Then you stuck a sheet of stickers on your face and pretended you were a dinosaur. You made me smile so big, deep from the heart. Then when you're napping, Asher and I lie on a blanket together and read and sing to him--just like I did with you when you were a teeny tiny baby.

You're still little, but you're definitely not teeny tiny anymore. You are constantly telling me "Adam does it" because you want to do everything all by yourself; however, sometimes you get frustrated and ask, "Mommy helps?" Yes Adam, I will always be here to help you. Just make me one little promise though, okay? Promise me that no matter how big you grow, no matter how old you get...promise me you'll still let me hold you in my arms tight and tell you how much I love you. And just one more promise--whenever you see a cherry blossom tree, will you think of me? Because I'll be thinking of you.