Dear Little Angel,

It's my third Mother's Day.  You and your daddy let me sleep until 10:30 this morning - something I desperately needed, since you cried for me for thirty-five minutes at five a.m.  You've been having a lot of trouble sleeping, which means I have been having a lot of trouble sleeping, since I'm the only one who you will accept in the wee hours, despite our many, many, many attempts otherwise.

You probably don't realize this, but I have snuck into your room and kissed your little cheeks every night that I've been home with you since the day you were born.  I started in the hospital, and I've never stopped.  Because I love you that much - I can't sleep not knowing that you are at peace, even when I'm not.

I read a quote once - I don't remember where - saying that if children realized how much their mothers loved them, they wouldn't have the courage to leave the house.  It's probably good that you don't realize how much I love you.

And Ma, I do realize how much you love me.

Happy Mother's Day.