A letter to my son...

Dear Max,
     Hey buddy. I am excited about meeting you in about 12 weeks. While I have a few brain cells that still seem to be working, I thought I'd tell you a few things that one day, a long time from now when you're older, I'll actually share with you.

• You are a miracle. All babies are, of course, but I am more aware of it this time. You have a brother (could be a sister, but we'll stick with brother for pronoun convenience) up in Heaven who we haven't had the chance to meet yet. However, before he left, he taught me how fragile and precious life is, even when you're no bigger than a teardrop.  So when Daddy and I found out you were on your way, we did not take that for granted.
• I told God I didn't think I could handle a boy. The boys in our family weren't exactly easy, laid-back, cookie cutter kids (sorry guys, but it's true). I guess he took this as a challenge, because here you come! When your sister was coming, I knew I had a lot to learn, but at least I had the princess/pink background covered. Honestly, I don't know anything about raising a boy. I would get a book, but they tend to make me feel bad about myself, so I'm hoping it's okay with you if I just wing it.
• You will need to learn sarcasm, humor, and flexibility early on to survive in this family. And knowing a few Disney songs will make the ride more enjoyable, and will make your sister accept you a little quicker.
• Your Daddy came up with your awesome name. I approved. General/Gladiator Maximus Decimus Meridius is about the manliest man you'll find in any movie. I insisted we shortened it to Max, but your dad and various others will no doubt call you Maximus. Take it as an honor. Your middle name, Callahan, is also after a manly man whom your Poppy especially adores, "Dirty" Harry Callahan. Ask Poppy to tell you about his one paper he ever wrote about another Clint Eastwood movie, The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly. Tell Grandmother that Callahan is a family name on your dad's side. Just trust me.
• Your Daddy and I love each other very much, and always will. I know, I know, ewwwww. Whatever. Again, just trust me, there will be one day you will be glad of that.

    

Okay, I'm sure there is more, but that seems to cover the high points for now. I promise you that I will do the very best I can to be the best mother for you. At least the God of the universe saw me fit for the job. I suppose we can have faith that he was right! (Remember the sarcasm/humor thing? I told you that you'd need it!)
                                                                                     I love you more than you'll know already!
                                                                                     Mommy