She

On Fridays a bunch of brave writers gather here to all spend 5 collective minutes writing on a single prompt.

Here’s how it all got started, back story, details and all. The short version is:

1. Write for 5 minutes flat for pure unedited love of the written word. (On your blog or in the comments).
2. Link back here and invite others to join in {you can grab the button code in my blog footer}.
3. Go leave some comment props for the five minute artist who linked up before you.

It’s a great way to catch your breath at the end of a long week.

She

  She is turning one next week. 

My heart feels a little bruised, a little softer for wearing. Times flies...

All those moments that make up the first year, almost gone.

I've done my best to enjoy those moments, trying to savour them. 

The sweet smiles, the firsts, the chub, the giggles.

The brothers taking it all in with me.

My baby girl, is toddling into girlhood and I hope I'm ready.

I hope I'm soft enough for her.

To help her through this next chapter with grace.

I hope I continue to see what it's like to be surrounded by boys,

that I never become blind to her heart.

I hope that I can get down on her level in these years, as much as I have this past year.

Bending over to see what she's looking at, to show her something new, to keep her safe.

Bending down to pick her up, to play peak a boo, to help her take those first faltering steps.

I hope I remember to keep slowing down as I have this past year.

To feed her, to change her, to snuggle and comfort her.

To watch her sleep.

Lord, keep my heart soft and my eyes wide open.

So I won't get caught up in the daily grind, as to miss the joy.

I hope that she continues to be the reminder to me to slow down, 

To enjoy every moment, 

to be softer, 

to smile more, 

to speak less and listen more.

Not just with her, but with the boys and my love and my friends too. 

She is my baby girl, and she is almost one.