My mom said I would do anything for my own child

Turns out with my kid still in utero, my feelings aren’t mild

I look at her black and white pictures everyday 

I’m already super mindful of the things I say 

But perhaps more importantly are the things I don’t do 

Like lick the brownie batter from the bowl 

Washing that triple chocolate gooiness down the drain pierced my soul 

Under normal circumstances I would have licked the bowl and spatula clean 

And even in my dreams 

I am cautious

I don’t ride my bike to work anymore 

I shop mostly organic at the grocery store 

Long runs in the humidity are off the list

Same for lifting heavy weights 

All the activities I miss!

I sleep on my side, not back 

I make sure to have my afternoon snack 

Oh, to feel her kick!

To hold her in my arms – in just a few weeks!

The thought of it sticks like ink 

And I envision all the things we’ll do: bake brownies and lick the spoons

Ride our bikes all afternoon 

Train for crossfit 

Eat some junk food, just a little bit 

Run 

Walk barefoot on the shore 

All these things and more, my dear!

You are worth it!