Dear Max,
Today marks the big milestone of you turning 6 months old! I know I’ve likely said this in every birthday note to your siblings, but wow, time truly flies. It feels like you’ve been part of our family forever, completing us in the best way possible.
Reflecting on the past six months feels like hitting the jackpot. I couldn’t have asked for a better baby. You have such a unique and delightful temperament that I hope you carry with you throughout your life. From the moment you entered this world, you’ve been calm, serene, and an absolute joy to have around. Honestly, if I had to count the times you’ve really cried, I’d barely need one hand! You eat, sleep, and smile—keeping it simple. Just like your dad always says, “You can’t spell smiles without Max.”
You radiate happiness just by being near those who love you. There’s nothing quite like showering you with kisses and seeing your eyes light up as you smile back.
I knew before you even arrived that letting go of the baby phase would be tough. But here you are, my last baby, and I’m so grateful for you. Your cheerful personality makes it easy for me to savor every moment. People have been telling me for years, “Enjoy it; it goes by too fast.” I used to find that saying irritating, but now I see how right they were, just in time to truly appreciate the last six months.
I vividly remember the day your oldest sister turned 6 months. I dressed her up in her fanciest party dress (even though we weren’t going anywhere) and showered her with gifts. We celebrated like there was no tomorrow! I was bursting with excitement, anticipating all the new things she’d soon be doing—crawling, walking, talking. Then, before I knew it, I was shopping for first-grade supplies!
I fully understand how quickly time passes, so I’m genuinely trying to relish every minute with you. Sometimes, it feels like I’m racing against time, and time is winning. But you make it easy to slow down and enjoy our moments together. Even when you’re being juggled between Bible camp and swim lessons in this sweltering heat, you still manage to smile.
When I’m in tears because I know it’s the last time I’ll swaddle one of my babies, you giggle and make me smile in return. At night, when you’re ready to sleep, you settle into my arms, as if you know I can’t bear to put you down just yet.
I know it’s time to transition you to your own room, but every morning I wake up and peek at your big, grinning face. If I could gather all your siblings back into the rock n’ play next to my bed for just one more night, I would do it in a heartbeat. So, for now, I’ll keep you close for a little while longer.
I celebrate all your milestones with joy, just as I did with your siblings, but there’s a tinge of sadness too. Each of your firsts means I’m saying goodbye to cherished stages of my life. While I’ll always cheer you on to reach the next big thing, know that I’ll do so with a lump in my throat because you’re my last little one.
My hope for you, Max, is to remain as happy as you are today throughout your life. Your joy is infectious! Over these past six months, it feels like everyone in our family smiles a bit brighter. Your friendly smiles have brightened the days of family, friends, and even strangers at the store. Your presence has brought a joy to my heart that I’ve never experienced before. For that, I thank you, Max, my precious last baby.
With love,
Mom