Written while sitting in the dark, holding my infant daughter.

There are times when I am holding the baby that my heart folds in on itself and clenches so tightly with love of her that I can't breathe for the pain. She is so dear, so soft. Her hair, what little there is of it, feels like silk, and she is warm and oh, so tiny lying here against my chest, sleeping as I type.

It's strange to remember that at one time my life felt complete without her. She is no mere addition now, but an essential member of our family. Life without her would be unbearable. Her presence makes colors richer, laughter more vibrant. She gives our family depth and dimension. Our life before she joined us seems so shallow and gray in comparison.

I am so grateful to have my family. It is the greatest thing I have known, loving them and being loved. I cannot imagine how life could ever be better than this moment.