Tender moments

Sometimes I see a my future flash in front of me. Every once in a while, I see Ryanne as a little girl, rather than a baby or even toddler. Its incredible to wonder what both the girls are going to be like as they grow. Will they be funny? artistic? athletic? into technology like their dad? After a visit with her aunt, I have a feeling Ryanne may have a girly side to her.

I try very hard to live presently and try hard not to look forward in time or wish away any of these tender moments that I have with them daily. Recently, I have made a point of putting away my mobile phone and resist the urge to check emails while they are up and playing. Its difficult. I know the things I do, they see and feel and will mimic. It may be hard for me, but I think it makes a big difference to them. They are most certainly worth it. Here are just a few (of many) things that I will miss about my kids as they grow and change, but have the opportunity and privilege to enjoy now.....

Finley continues sucking on her lips right after feeding
Arching their backs when they awaken with their butts out
Gummy smiles
Wearing footie pj's, all day sometimes
Wet kisses and small hugs
Breastfeeding
Rolls and chunky arms, legs, chins and bottoms
Fat square feet
Baby noses and baby breathing
Pretend talking on the phone
The softest skin on earth
Having to clip their tiny soft nails every other day
Long butt cracks
Nap hair
Thumb sucking & Ryanne's pup pup
Their excitement when daddy gets home from work
The swish-swish of their diapers when they walk
Those little hands grabbing everything
Their coughs and sneezes (not the projectile kind)
How they hold my hand
How they repeat words I say, even if it comes out mispronounced
High pitched voices
The soft, happy (but sometimes concerned) chatter when they wake up
Singing kid songs
How they make each other laugh (hopefully they will do this for life)
Their love for Shush
Tea parties, crafts, and dress up
Chasing through the house and dancing to loud music
Smelly neck cheese...I know, so gross, but I cannot get enough of it
Snuggling
The awe of blowing bubbles
Sisters bath time
Playing outside
The feel of their soft fuzzy heads on my chin as their baby hair starts to grow out
Naps!

I foresee this will be an ongoing list, forever, and with each age, it will change. This is only just the tip of the iceberg of how many things I love about them. I will probably have to add to this in a few days when I keep thinking of more things, but this is just what I had in my mind today...Or perhaps I'll write another list next year with all my new favorites. Of course, there will be things that I will not miss, but I will leave those undeclared.