Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Dear Patrick

Dear Sweet Boy,

You are our miracle child. When I think about all the things that occured to bring you into our family, I'm amazed. From the moment I saw your picture, I was a goner. You were so handsome and your eyes were so bright. Your dad and I knew instantly that you were ours. And we are so blessed to have you as our son.

On this day three years ago, I became a mom for the second time. Though I didn't know it, God did and He planned for you to be our son from the very beginning. How I wish I could have been there from the moment you were born but know that you were born in my heart.

I remember the first time we met you like it was yesterday - you cried and cried. I think I cried a little, too - I couldn't imagine how hard it must be for strangers to come and want to hold you and love on you. Your trust was not easily won but we knew you were ours and that God meant for you to be our son. I'll never forget the first time you fell asleep in my arms - it was a few days after meeting you and I knew that everything would be okay. Your caregivers told us that you began to look for us every day and my heart swelled with love and joy. Though your love grew slower, it was clear that it was a strong, trusting, permanent love.

The joy I feel when you run to greet me, cuddle up next to me, hug me tight, and insist that I be the one to hold your hand, put you to bed, or read you a book is overwhelming. You have come such a long way. I love to see your pleasure in things from Cars to animals to books. You have learned to enjoy reading books, singing praises, and being a helper. I'm constantly amazed by your generous spirit and eagerness to do whatever task is asked of you. I love to see you play with Calvin and I know you are going to be a great big brother.

You are a delight, Patrick and I LOVE YOU! Never doubt that for a moment. I will love you forever and I'm thankful God made you ours. Though you didn't grow in my tummy always know that you grew in my heart. You are chosen and loved. I pray that you will continue to grow in God's ways and honor Him with your life. Happy 3rd Birthday, son!

Love forever,
Mommy

11 comments:

Heather said...

My heart melts with Joy when I read this. I love it.

Gretchen said...

Beautiful post. Happy Birthday Patrick. :)

Paula said...

Alaina, what a precious letter to your son. He will treasure it always.

Deb said...

What a great letter. Happy Birthday!

Kim said...

Happy Birthday Patrick! How very heartwarming.

Kate Ambrose said...

What a beautiful letter. Patrick is blessed to have you as parents, and I can tell the love you have for each other. Happy Birthday, Patrick!

Smith Family Blog said...

Thanks for sharing these thoughts with the rest of us-- they made me weepy and so grateful that God takes care of us! :)

Thad and Ann said...

what a beautiful post. Happy Birthday Patrick, you are so handsome! :)

CityStreams said...

I'm wiping the tears out of my eyes. What a sweet post. You paint beautiful pictures of your love. Patrick will treasure this one day.

Kathleen W. said...

He is so adorable! I just want to pick him up and hug him. I loved reading your post, and it reminded me of how I felt about my son when I first met him (not adopted, but he cried a lot too).

Amy K said...

What great pictures and what a sweet tribute.