Three Little Words

Growing up my family was always very affectionate. We still are. I hug and kiss them when I see them and we never leave each other without saying “I love you.” Naturally, when Harlan was born, I was very affectionate with her. I kissed her and hugged her often and always told her I loved her.

As she gets older {and is now starting to form opinions of her own} I see that my affection is rubbing off on her. The first thing she does when I get home is come up and give me a great big hug. She gives MacKay and I a kiss as soon as she wakes up in the morning. She is the most loving and affectionate little girl I know.

I tell her I love her as often as I can. I want her to know just how much I adore and cherish her. She will say it back almost all of the time and the words melt my heart. On Monday though, those three little words took on a whole new meaning.

Harlan and I were sitting on the couch relaxing when she tapped me on the shoulder to get my attention. Thinking that she was going to ask me for another snack or drink, I just looked at her. “Mama” she said trying to get my attention again. “Yes, Harlan,” I replied. “I love you,” she said softly. “I love you, too Har.” I told her with a huge grin.

This was the first time she has ever told me that. I am always the one to initiate it. This time, I didn’t have to. I don’t know if she really knows what it means, but at that moment I realized that she knows it’s a sign of affection. It was one of my proudest moments as a mother. She loves me. And with all of the hugs and kisses that shows me she loves me, she now wants to tell me too.

I love you too, Har.

{First photo taken by Andrea Rodman Photography. Last picture taken by Jenny Sherouse Photgraphy.}