Dear Little Dane,

This is your aunty Whitney, and I have some things to share with you, thoughts that came to me when you were still so tiny.

I love holding you, your precious little body, still so fragile and new. I love the softness of your scent, your unblemished olive skin, and placing my hand on the rhythm of your strong little heart. I love the way you look around, as if you’re trying to make sense of a world out of focus, and I love the way you rest in the arms of your mommy, and in the presence of your daddy. I love the peace you bring those who visit you, the way you slow down your company, if only for a few moments. When people walk into the room, they unthinkingly leave their worries behind, and your comfort, your health, your well being takes absolute precedence. You already occupy the hearts of those who meet you. It matters not what you will be, the choices you will make– you are born into a family of friends who will unconditionally support and adore you.

You were born to a mommy who is strong, yet sweet. I’m sure, in your simple way, you already know. Dane, you have made her so tender. She has always been bold, strong, independent– and this is what we have long loved about her. But now, she is marked by her tenderness. I remember my mom used to watch your mom, and her and I would play for hours after school. She was always the show-runner, the show-stopper, heck, the whole show! Your mom is so smart, and she will share what she knows with you. She has resiliently trudged through several trying season, been the victim of bad weather, been the song bird of new and prettier days. One day she will speak into you the things that have made her strong. Your mom keeps nothing to herself; she is one of the most generous people I know. You will inherit the entirety of her wisdom, if you dare listen, little Dane.

And, your daddy is such a hard worker, so enamored by you, his first son. He works nights while your mom goes to school during the day, so that your future is something you will be proud of. Your daddy is someone I grew up with– he too is brilliant! His mind is sharp, and he is so much fun! He won’t let you live a dull moment, he’ll always protect you, and he’ll teach you how to make the most of what you have, just like he has. You are lucky to be his son.

Little Dane, you are blessed. I pray you learn about the wonderful creator who is your father in heaven, by one day looking at the details in these photos. The way you look, the way you breathe, nothing by coincidence. You were perfectly created on purpose, soon you will know, as you ween your way into independence. I pray you learn grace by feeling the unlimited forgiveness of your parents, as you slowly grow out of your innocence. I hope you give grace to your parents who I’ve seen work so diligently to make you comfortable. I pray your mother makes you laugh like she always has made me. I pray you your father makes you courageous, much like him.

And I pray you know this, little Dane: God has his fingerprints all over your precious little life. We know His love for us better, by the love he’s place in our hearts for you.

Love, Whitney