I heart Riley and Reece

(Since it's Valentine's Day next Monday, thought I'd write a little love note to my two little darlings.)

Dear Riley and Reece,

To think that I once thought children were horrendous and didn't want any! Of course, such a thought would never, ever pass my mind now that you've entered my life.

When did I start loving the two of you? From the moment the nurse at KK took a quick glance at the pregnancy test device and said very happily to me, "You're pregnant!" (Ok, admittedly, I didn't quite know what to feel the first time I set eyes on you, Riley. And I certainly wasn't feeling much love when labouring to give birth to you gave me such intense, intense pain, Reece.)

Mostly, my journey with the two of you has been one of wild, crazy love. The kind of love that makes me want to give up on everything else. The kind of love that makes me protective, delirious, scared, anxious, angry, disappointed, thrilled, proud... - a mad, swirling mix of very different emotions, sometimes all at the same time. And while you're still too young to understand what I really mean, Reece, this is something I'm certain Riley understands and shares.

Riley, my darling, what more can I say about you? Like Reece, you're the light of my life. But what you've shared with me the last four years is the something special we will have for the rest of our lives together. It's not just the secrets you've whispered to me, or the endless chatter you've subjected (haha!) me to. It's not just the hugs we've given each other or the huggles and kisses we're so used to having. It's also how we've come to read each other - often without the need to verbalise what we think or feel. I know when you need me, I can feel when something is wrong. Just like you know exactly how I feel without me even having to open my mouth to say anything. And immediately, you know what I need - whether it is a hug or an affectionate pat on my back or shoulder. Or just telling me, 'it's ok, mama'. Somedays, I look at you - this 4-year-old who follows instructions, helps out with housework (you fold, clean and organise perfectly!), plays with his little brother, loves his parents to bits, loves school, loves his friends, is creative, earnest, curious, independent and loving - and I marvel at how you've grown and how you've moulded youself into such a lovely little boy. You, my dear Riley, you are truly special and amazing. Continue believing in youself and continue with that courage to learn and try and continue with that strength you have inside of you.

And Reece, my little Reece. You're such a little tornado, ripping through our everyday lives with intense energy. You're strong and quick, assertive and curious and at the same time, you look to us to share your love and your joy. You shower me with kisses and give me the tightest ever hugs, as if you were afraid I might run off. You're so quick at picking up everything that I sometimes forget you're only really 1-year-old and still a little baby. You know what you want and you're not afraid to stick to your desires. With you, I don't worry about you being bullied on playdates of at school. You certainly are no pushover. Yet, with me, you're the sweetest little thing ever, snuggling up right next to me when we're in bed together, sleeping with one hand on my arm, hanging around me when I cook, when I wash, and even when I'm in the toilet! (Ok, that last one can sometimes be a little annoying.) But I love you so much, I wouldn't have it any other way.

Everyday of my journey with you has been an amazing one. Everyday that you grow and learn is everyday that I grow and learn. I love holding your hands and making this journey with the two of you. Riley and Reece, I love you and I love being your mother.

Happy Valentine's Day, my darlings!