If I Could Write a Letter to Me

I've been learning a lesson this week. As I drove home from Target last night it all sort of came together for me. It's not necessarily a brand new thought or revelation, but one that has been constantly evolving over the past four and a half years.

I kept thinking about that song, Letter to Me by Brad Paisley. But I'm not thinking about sending it back to my seventeen year old self, more so I'm thinking about me 20 years from now sending it to the "me" of right now. I think with each passing day I realize more and more about how special (and short) this period of life is. So I think my letter might go a little something like this...

Dear Beth,

It's me...the older, somewhat wiser, and much more rested you. Ahhhh sleep, it's a beautiful thing. I know you are missing that right now, along with time to yourself, and the things you sometimes wish you could squeeze in like reading, heading out for a night on the town, or just a little peace and quiet. But trust me on the peace and quiet thing, it's not all it's cracked up to be. Really it's kinda' overrated but here a few things that aren't...

Those sweet little baby grins...take them all in. They don't last long, before you know it those gums are full of teeth and have a lot to say, but for now take in the coos and smiles, they are priceless.

Speaking of priceless...Carter cuddling in your lap won't last forever. Those long legs just keep getting longer and in the not too distant future she won't be able to tuck them up and wrap her tiny hands around your neck. When she finds you and just wants to sit...do it. Don't let the moment pass you by. Be present, give her your undivided attention, take it all in...nothing could be more important.

Kiss your sweet husband a few extra times a day. Tell him how much you appreciate all he does to make your life a little easier. Make sure he knows what you already do in your heart...he's all you ever dreamed of and more.

Don't sweat the small stuff...I mean it...DON'T sweat the small stuff. When you get a little overwhelmed just let it go. Don't worry so much about things being clean, finished, perfect. Life is short and in the end they won't remember if you ate on paper plates...they'll remember you were there.

I know you're doing the best you can, but I just want to say this. Enjoy where you're at. Don't look ahead and don't look back. Just be right where you are. Live everyday...and don't just live...enjoy it. Love your babies, they won't be babies for long. Life is good every step of the way take the time to appreciate this one. They are each unique and deserve to be treasured.

Love,

Me