Slow Down, Mama, I’m Your Last Baby

Slow down, Mama, I’m your last baby.

You’re not savoring all the cuddles as you’re rocking me for my nap. Instead, you’re worried about all the things you need to do, and you’re just wishing I’d sleep. I just want to snuggle and hear your heartbeat. 

I’m the last baby you’ll get to rock to sleep.

You’re scrolling on your phone instead of getting down on the floor with me and playing. I’m learning all about the world and exploring all the things. Some day, I’ll be running all around and won’t want to play with you. 

I’m the last baby you’ll get to play with.

We’re running all over the place, doing all of the things and going to all kinds of places. I’m along for the ride, of course; but if it’s possible, can we just stay at home and spend time together as a family? You’re missing so much when we’re going and doing all the time. Instead, I really want to play with my siblings and watch them so that I can learn from them. They love teaching me new things too. 

I’m the last baby you’ll get to watch interact with the big kids and learn from them. 

You’re worried about all the laundry that needs to be folded and you feel guilty that the house is a mess. You’re frustrated with me because I need extra comfort right now, my teeth are bothering me. 

I’m the last baby you’ll get to soothe and snuggle. 

I’m growing so fast, and soon I’ll be moving from baby to toddler and you won’t get these baby days back. You’ll look back and wish you would’ve savored it all more.

So slow down, Mama. 

Look up from your phone.

Lay down the worries, and be present with me.

Cuddle up and take a nap with me. 

Take the pictures. Get in the pictures with me. 

Soak it all in. 

Slow down, Mama . . .

I’m your last baby.