Shells

Monday night, Ely decided she wanted some Shells and White Cheddar Pasta Roni. She went to the pantry and pulled out a box, bringing it to me and shaking it slightly. "I think we need shells," she said with a little tilt to her head.

"Oh, we do?" I asked her, to which she nodded emphatically.

"Yes, mommy. We need shells." I told her I'd think about it.

Several minutes later, she turned to me and asked what I was thinking. Supposing that she had seen a worried look on my face or something of the kind, I responded, "I'm thinking about how much I love you."

She said earnestly, "And about shells?"

Yes, my darling . . . about shells and how much I love you.

A Mother's Love

Last night and this morning, I held my new now-two-month-old baby, Ria, in my arms while Ely cuddled close to me. There is no metaphor for the feelings of gratitude which cradled me. If there will be any way to encapsulate my life when all is done, I hope that it is distilled into such sweet moments of perfect joy.

This must be what heaven feels like.