For Zayne

To My Sweet Boy: I cannot begin to tell you how much I love you! You are the sweetest kid, and I’m so proud of the little man you’re becoming. You are so independent and curious, and you make me laugh a thousand times a day. I love that you’re excited for your little sister to be in mom’s tummy, but I’m not totally sure that you understand the reality of what’s about to happen. Right now, you love your little sister, and are always kissing and hugging my tummy. You know that your sister is in there. I don't think you understand yet that having a new baby means that mom and dad will have to divide their time and attention between you and Maia. She won't be able to take care of herself for a while, and she will need a lot of care. It will take some getting used to for everyone, but I think we will all adjust in time. You are so good with other babies, so I know you will take good care of Baby Maia. I want you to know, though, that just because there will be another baby in the house, that does not mean that I love you any less. It was important to mom and dad that you grow up with a sibling, not only to have as a buddy, but to teach you about life. About fighting, and loving, and standing up for others, and respecting others, and sharing, and patience. You probably won't care about any of this until you're older, but I hope that you'll appreciate the life lessons when you're an adult. I know that you probably won’t understand why sister will take up so much of my time, and why I won’t always be at your beck and call, but I hope and pray that as you get older, you will understand and know that you and your sister are the most important little people in my world. I know you will enjoy helping me to take care of Maia, and she will look up to you for the rest of your lives. I’m counting on you to be the best role model possible, and set a good example for her. She will follow in your footsteps, and it will probably annoy you early on, but as you both grow, I hope you continue to be best of friends who look out for each other and have each other's back, no matter what the situation. I love you to the moon and beyond! Mommy