This Little Hand

This Little Hand

This little hand

So chubby and sweet

Reaching, grasping, touching my cheek.

Your tiny, wrinkly fingers

Only hours old

Holding on to mine so tight.

Sucking your fist to tell me it’s time to eat,

Gently resting your palm on my chest as you nurse.

You grow and you grow

Oh, so much in just one year.

You place your little hand in mine

To take your first uncertain steps.

Picking up sticks, pinecones and rocks

Petting the dogs, wiping up messes and blowing kisses,

Your little hands are capable of so much now.

You learn to clap and suddenly everything is celebrated.

You don’t realize it yet, but I celebrate you every day

My loving, kind, special child.

One day this hand will grow bigger than my own,

You will find another hand to hold.

Someone who loves you and wants to take care of you

like I have done for so long.

Until that time comes I will cherish every second

Each breath, all of the hugs and slobbery kisses.

The hands pushing at my legs to get my attention

Asking for milk or to read a book.

I will put down my phone, step away from the laundry

The dishes can wait.

I adore you, my child.

As long as you let me I’ll hold it-

This little hand.