When I was a teenager I was flipping through my baby book and I saw a letter my mom had written to me before I was born. It was sweet and heartfelt and at that moment I knew on a deeper level how very wanted I was and how special I was to my mom even before she met me for the first time. It has always been important to me that I make a conscious choice to become a parent and that I wait until I’m really ready to take on the responsibilities of parenthood. So here I am, just two weeks away from my “guess date” and I’ve decided to write a letter to my baby to welcome him or her.
I notice that the closer I get to giving birth, the more my thoughts are turning inward. I’m beginning to focus on the center of my universe more than ever before. I’m preparing my nest, connecting with my husband, and enjoying the quiet alone times. So, rather than sharing some new parenting tip or technique, this week, I’m just sharing from my own heart. I’m glad to know that I can share so personally here along with all the other ways I share. And I hope you enjoy this special blog. So, here’s my letter to my about to be born baby.
Dear Baby,
Wow, you’re almost here and we are so excited to finally meet you. Your dad and I have been waiting for you for 9 long months and pretty soon we’ll get to see you, touch you, and gaze into your beautiful eyes. I’m especially looking forward to holding you in my arms and nuzzling your sweet smelling head. Let’s spend hours together just cuddling, nursing, sleeping, and enjoying life together.
I can’t wait to be your mama. I’ve been preparing for motherhood since I was a young girl and I feel so ready to welcome you into my life. I’ve studied everything I could about how to be a good parent, how to help you learn and grow, and how to be the best example I can be for you. I’ve even practiced by taking care of lots of other babies and kids, but really it was all for you. Taking care of you and teaching you how to take good care of yourself sounds like the most fun and rewarding thing I could possibly do in my life. Thanks for helping me fulfill my life’s purpose.
Just wait ‘till you meet your dad. He’s fantastic. I just know he’s going to be such a wonderful daddy to you. When I was choosing a husband I decided to choose the man with the biggest, most beautiful heart I could find. And that’s your dad. He cares so deeply, and shares himself so openly. I love his honesty and the way he has trouble keeping a secret, even when it’s a fun surprise. I completely trust him to take exquisite care of all of our hearts, which is really the most important task of all. And on top of all that, he’s hilarious! With your daddy in our lives, we are sure to have lots and lots of laughter and fun.
My friends keep telling me that you’re “one lucky baby” and I agree. I’ve always thought of myself as one of the luckiest people I know. And I’m so happy to pass on my good fortune to you. In fact, there’s no one else I’d rather bless with endless good luck and the ability to appreciate and enjoy it.
One of my deepest hopes is that we can always communicate openly with each other, that no matter what’s happening, you know you can always come to us, share whatever’s on your heart and we’ll always love you no matter what. There may be times when we don’t like each other very much, but even then, please know, that we love you dearly, deeply, and without conditions. And even in times when you think you don’t, we’ll remember that you love us too. Because that’s how it is in our family, we practice unconditional love and acceptance no matter what the circumstances.
So, welcome to life on Earth, and welcome to your family. May you be surrounded by love, inspired to learn and grow, and always know that you are deeply cherished.
So much love, Your Mom
I’m curious, have any of you written similar letters to your children before they arrived? What kinds of things did you share? How do you feel about having written to your unborn child? And what impact do you think your letter will have on your child as he or she reads it later?
Have a fantastic week. Warm hugs, Shelly
Thank You for sharing this Shelly. You’ve been in my thoughts a lot this week- you’re so close to meeting your baby! It’s the most exciting part of LIFE! (in my opinion) and I’m so happy for you.
I had the chance to write a letter to Reece- it was actually in a pre-nantal yoga class, only few days before she decided to arrive two weeks early. It was a trememdous release to get all of my emotions out on paper. Looking back I believe it helped me have a fast and smooth labor and delivery. When I went into labor I had already processed and accepted all of my feelings. I was able to get out of my head, out of own way, and let my body take over. Birth is an amazing experience, especially when you can fully welcome and embrace it.
Lots of love to you.
Shelly… this is beautiful.
Shelly, the letter to your baby is beautiful. I wish I would have written one for both of my boys. They love to hear that I always wanted to have two kids and that I’m so happy to be with my sweet and funny boys.
I’m happy that you’re about to meet your little one. I look forward to hear how much your own child will change your perspective on parenting.
Hey, Shelly —
I used to talk to Canaan before he was born…we worked out his name, and arrival time. Too bad I didn’t get the toilet training thing agreed on beforehand, but, well, hindsight, and all, so to speak. So thrilled for you and Kevin. Now is the time to put all this stuff we’ve been yakking about into practice! I’m here for you, and so are we all.
Lots of love,
Jill
hi,
When our daughter was one, instead of giving her presents, everyone was asked to give her a birthday wish.
we got heaps of letters for her in sealed envelopes.
they were all put in a special treasure box and sealed.
don’t know when we’ll give them to her, i want to wait til her 21st but my hubbie wants to do it for her communion.
Hard to resist opening them, some of the people who wrote to her have since passed away, which makes it even more special.
Best of luck with your new little one.
Blessings,
Pauline
I am pregnant with my first, I have been trying to learn everything there is to know about taking care of a baby. I really appreciate you sharing your letter, it really tougher me. I am so happy for you. It’s amazing the connection we have with our little one. Thanks again.
With much love
Lacey
My liliana. Will be born aug 17 2015
AgustinScoobyAlfaro Congratulations! I am so excited for you. Have a wonderful day, Shelly
http://thewalkingdeadseason6episodes.com/
http://fearthewalkingdeadonline.com/
http://fearthewalkingdeadonline.com/fear-the-walking-dead-wikia-cast-plot-summery-and-premise/
http://thewalkingdeadseason6episodes.com/walking-dead-season-6-air-date-wikia-news-season-6-preview/