Dear Expectant Me,
At 39 weeks and 5 days pregnant, I find you seated in your cozy glider, holding a soft pink teddy bear, tears streaming down your face as you experience a whirlwind of emotions. Excitement and fear intertwine within you, as tomorrow marks the moment you will finally meet your daughter.
If only I could reach through the universe and share a word with you from a year in the future. I am writing this on the eve of our daughter’s first birthday. Despite hearing reassurances from countless voices, you will only believe me when I say, you will be more than okay—you will thrive. The fear and anxiety you feel now will transform into cherished memories that you hold dear.
It’s hard to fathom that an entire year has gone by, and it feels surreal that we now have a little girl on the brink of toddlerhood. I can still recall the taste of those tears filled with fear and uncertainty. In just a few days, you will leave the hospital with a 7-pound bundle of joy, complete with dark hair, rosy cheeks, and a cry that will shake you to your core. Rest assured, you will navigate the newborn months with your body and mind (mostly) intact.
I don’t want to downplay the challenges that come with caring for a newborn or the trials that lie ahead. Instead, I want to highlight the overwhelming love and joy that will flood your life shortly. It will be worth every sleepless night.
Soon, you will witness our daughter stand on her sturdy little legs, babbling and exploring her world with childlike wonder. She will grow into a curious, adventurous girl with sparkling eyes and laughter that will fill your heart.
Oh, dear Mama, you will experience so much love and laughter this coming year. You will watch her achieve milestones—rolling over, crawling, standing, and even walking. Each achievement will be a bittersweet reminder that she is growing up far faster than you are prepared for.
You will learn the intricacies of motherhood, like how to swaddle her perfectly, the magic of Butt Paste for diaper rashes, and how to juggle feeding her while also carving out time for yourself. You’ll discover the liberating power of letting go of societal expectations and embracing the reality of motherhood. Trusting your instincts will become second nature, and you will realize that love, exhaustion, frustration, and joy can coexist in a single moment.
There’s nothing you wouldn’t do for her; you would traverse any obstacle to ensure her well-being. The intensity of a mother’s love is unparalleled, and you will understand that profound connection deeply. She will teach you about selflessness, resilience, and the importance of asking for help when needed.
Above all, she will show you the true meaning of joy. The happiness she brings cannot be captured in words. It transcends the mundane, and the love you will experience is beyond anything you’ve ever known.
It won’t always be picture-perfect. Sometimes, it will look like a soothing lullaby in a quiet room, while other times, it will be messy and chaotic. You’ll find beauty in the everyday moments: dirt on the kitchen floor, toys scattered throughout the house, and the simple pleasure of cuddling with your little girl.
I am profoundly grateful for the privilege of being her mother.
Oh, dear Mama, brace yourself for this exhilarating journey of motherhood. Take a moment to appreciate your beautiful pregnant belly for me.
Sincerely,
Your Future Self, who now holds our daughter’s newborn cap, with excitement for the upcoming toddler years.
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In summary, this letter serves as a reminder that the journey of motherhood is filled with love, challenges, and growth. You will discover new depths of joy, resilience, and connection as you embrace this incredible adventure.