I hope I never forget opening doors to stumble on your tiny frame waiting on the other side.
The soft thump thump thump as you scoot down the hallway to my room.
My fingers entwined in your strawberry hair as we wrangle it into shape for the day.
How sweetly and well your hair fits in the day’s fresh braids... until your bangs softly slip out, and your afternoon nap renders the whole work electric.
And may I never, ever forget the sacred honor I feel every time your little voice repeats your one clear word... your first word... your favorite word... “Mama.”
