At Six Months

14.4 lbs. 25 ins.

I know clichés sound insincere

But the words fit perfectly.

She is my sunshine

The apple of my eye

My pride and joy.

I miss my precious newborn

But I adore my darling girl

Who sits up to play,

Eats carrots and applesauce,

And takes her pacifier out and in again.

Her voice adds music to my day.

She giggles and chuckles

When we sing or play patty cake.

Screams, squeals, coos and complaints

Sounds I want to remember forever.

Her square, little feet and

Strong, chunky legs

Are in constant motion

Thumping and kicking shake her bed

A signal that naptime is over.

Her keen eyes watch

The dog and her brother

Waiting for a chance

To get her hands on

The fur or the cereal.

With a mixture of

Love and hunger

She grabs my face

For fierce, slobbery kisses

That end in sucking on my chin.

Wide-mouthed smiles given freely

To strangers, friends and family.

A shout of recognition

When Daddy, Marianne or Evan

Enter the room.

But her eyes light up

Desperation mingled with delight

When she sees my face.

A special look reserved

Just for me--

Her Mama.