"I love you, Mama."

Parenting, and especially, I must say, motherhood has many tiring, trying moments. But it's all worth it when your tantrum prone two year old son cozies up to you of his own accord and announces gently, "I love you, Mama." I almost didn't catch it as I was busy checking e-mail while he looked at books. This, his first unsolicited (read: I've asked him to say it dozens of times, requested kisses, hugs, pats etc) declaration of his affection for me was truly sweet. Here's to the sweet times with your little ones.