In many ways, Elijah is my most enriching child. Similarly, he is also my most challenging. I'm so unlike him, really: in every way from gender to temperament to personality, we are living in two strikingly different pea pods. But his laugh is contagious. His impish smile reminds me of light and hope and simply not taking it all so seriously. His mischief-making can pain me; yet, it furthers my knowledge that exploration of the world is how you become a strong leader. And, sometimes, when you error by following the wrong example, you also learn how to recognize the right one. And often when I ask him, "What were you thinking?" I feel I'm asking God the same question. His reply always gently comes to me in Elijah's cuddling, chunky arms as he hugs and kisses me to announce, "You're the best mommy ever!" And I think, "Yes, I am blessed, indeed!"
