To My Dear Child

Dear Baby,

Once again I find myself wanting to talk with you. There is so much that I want to share with you, and someday maybe you will read all of these letters, and you will get a glimpse of how much you are loved. Not only by your Mom and Dad, but your heavenly Father loves you more than even we can.

I have so many prayers and dreams for you. I hope that you inherit your Dad's immune system. As much as I battle my RA and my almost defenseless immune system, I am comforted knowing that most likely your Dad won't catch whatever bug of the month I have.

I also pray that you grow up to be kind, meek and gentle. This doesn't mean that you are a doormat. It means that you have a quiet strength. It takes more strength and courage to turn away from a fight than it does to let your fists do the talking. Kindness to all is very courageous.

The journey that your Dad and I took to meet each other was a long and windy one. I pray that your journey is full of just as many life lessons, but that they are easier learned than ours. Listen to your elders and learn from the mistakes of others so that you don't have to experience the same pain. Trust me, you will make enough of your own!

Most of all I hope that you develop a heart that loves the Lord. Our God is amazing. His love is infectious, His mercies are new every day, and His forgiveness is quick and all encompassing. But just as wonderful as all that is, so too is His righteousness and judgement. He did the hard work by dying on the cross, now it is up to each of us to accept His gift. If we don't, we are guaranteed an eternity in Hell, and Baby- choose eternal life, not eternal death.

There is so much more to share. I have the stories that I grew up on, the stories of your great-granny Burton, the stories of Mama Kremensek, and my story. Your Dad has just as many from his family to share. We want you to grow up to be proud of who you are, proud of where you came from.

Remember this one last piece of advice. There are 2 types of people in this world. There are honest people who understand that God expects us to work and earn our keep, and there are dishonest people who expect to be given everything. Valor, respect and character come from being the first.

I love you my child. Take care and grow healthy these next 18 weeks. We can't wait to meet you, to hold you, to love you, but for now I leave that to God as HE continues to knit you and form you within my womb.

Love much,
Your Mom