"But I named you 'MOM'...

We were in the car, headed to the mall. Logan was 3 years old, sitting in the back seat of our VW Passat. He asked me, "Mom...Why are named "Stacey"?" I answered, "I guess because Gram liked the name." He says, "Well, she may have named you "Stacey", but I named you "Mom"..."

On this day, 12 years ago, Logan made me a mom. Little did I know then how much my heart would swell, how ferociously I would protect him (and the other two siblings to follow), how much I would love such a little person. From the day we met, I knew Logan was different. He is generous and quiet. He is sweet and sensitive. He is compassionate. He is my old soul. He love surprises and quiet mornings of nothingness. He loves waffles for breakfast and being read to at night. His eyes still light up when we plan "Family Movie Night". He loves staying up past midnight on New Year's Eve. He loves sparkling white grape juice in a champagne flute.

It seems as if I lost blocks of time during his labor and delivery, but one thing I remember so vividly is watching him being laid on my chest for the first time. Looking at Brad and seeing his eyes fill with tears and joy. I remember how naturally Brad took him in his arms and lulled him, trying to soothe him. I remember seeing my husband in a whole new way. We were a family and it felt so very meant to be.

As he blows out his birthday candles tonight, I'll be making a wish of my own: I hope you grow up and spread your wings, but always remember your roots. I hope you have a great experience at your first year of Middle School. I hope you will continue to hug me, even after you've grown taller than me (which will happen this year, for sure!). I hope, in the coming years, that you realize we may not always agree, but know that I only have your best interest at heart. But most of all, I want you to be happy. I want you to love life and only surround yourself with those who love you just as much. I love you, Baby Boy!