15 years that has gone by so fast, it seems only the blink of an eye ago that you were a chubby cheeked, big eyed toddler, yet time has also slowed since you came, and it seems that you have always been with me.
And as I think about it, I realise that you have been with me for almost half my life. I can hardly remember a time when I wasn't 'Mum'.
You were born on the last day of winter, your arrival heralded the coming spring, and the new chapter in my life. Little did I know then how my life would change.
When one has a baby, it's expected that you will raise that child, shape and mould him, help him to grow physically and emotionally into the best person he can be. But little do you expect the way that tiny child will shape and mould you the parent, help you grow emotionally and become the best person you can be. It is one of the joys of being a mother, to not only know that I raised you and helped you grow, but that you did the same for me. It's a bond we will always have.
These past 15 years are full of so many memories, filled with your laugh, your smile and your spirit. You have been mine for all these years, though I am conscious that I have very few years left that you will remain really mine. You are taking your first steps into the adult world, and I long to hold you close to me but know I have to let you walk that path. I want to cling to the precious little baby you were, the cheeky toddler and the loving child, I'm not sure I'm ready to be the mother of the man I see you becoming. A man of determination, conviction and optimism.
I'm so very proud of you, of the challenges you face and overcome, the way you look at the world full of hope, the love you have for your family, and for your steady and true nature.
I'm so grateful to have you as my son.
And I always will be.
Beautiful post. Happy birthday Kaiden, happy mummy-versary Leiani.
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