So in love

There are not even words to describe the love that Ed and I have for Milo.  Every single day he amazes us - he is smart and is developing perfectly on target.  He has a smile that lights up the room and a laugh that is just magical!  He is such a happy and wonderful little baby and we are blessed beyond understanding to have such a precious son! 

He is now rolling over, sleeping through the night, cooing and talking like crazy, smiling constantly, and laughing all of the time.  He is growing so much - he is almost 14 pounds and is growing like a weed:)  He is incredibly handsome I can't help but kiss his face constantly!!!!!  I am the happiest that I have ever been - he brings a whole new meaning to our lives and brings us so much joy and happiness.  When I look at him I am just overwhelmed by how much love I feel for this precious child.  Being a mother is more amazing that I ever could have imagined!

The best advice that I have ever been given

I found such a special surprise in my mailbox today!  I started teaching 6 years ago, and a student from my first year of teaching had left a gift for me at school.  In the giftbag, I found two adorable outfits for Milo, but the best part was the letter that she wrote!  I was immediately brought to tears by her kind and loving words!  She is such a special young lady and has amazing parents!  She gave me advice based on what she admired and cherished about her parent's parenting style - I had to share her advice, it is the best advice that I have ever been given:
She wrote....
"1.  Put time with me above everything else.  My mom always said, "I can always clean the house but I won't always have you"
2.  Let me use my imagination - I used to love playing pirate and helping my mom "mop the poop-deck" and this played to her advantage as well:)
3.  Love each other - my parents have shown me true love and now I won't settle for anything but the best!  I used to say "eww" when I saw them kiss but I always knew that they loved each other and I found comfort in that.
4.  Showed me how fortunate I am  - my mom used to take my sister and I to volunteer and I got to see how lucky I was
5.  Taught me not to pity those who have less but to offer a helping hand
6.  Quality time with each parent;  I love doing yardwork, canoeing and running with my dad but it feels weird with my mom - it is me and daddy's thing
7.  Teaching me to follow my gut when making decisions
8.  Supporting me in everything that I do
9.  J.O.Y. Jesus, Others, Yourself
10. Teaching me that bad decisions don't make me a bad person
11.  Always express my emotions - my parents told me this constantly
12.  Service makes yourself and those you are serving happier
13.  Find your passion and live for it!

I know that she is wise beyond her years!  For a high schooler to take the time to write her 6th grade teacher a letter filled with such wisdom and love was so wonderful!