Babies don't keep.

There are three items from my childhood that I will always remember as a part of my home. The first is a kitchen decoration above the breadbox that is a man and woman kissing with a turkey below. Above the kissing couple, it says "Kissin' don't last" and below the turkey it says, "Cookin' do." I still remember asking Mom what that meant. The second is a poem about Dirty Dishes on the side of the cup cupboard next to the sink. The third is a framed cross-stitch that my mother owned (not sure if she made it or not). This is possibly my favorite item from home and can be accredited for my love of writing poetry.

Well, I've been thinking about this item from home recently because Chelsea is growing up so fast. It seems like just yesterday I was holding her in my arms for the very first time. Last night, as I was rocking and singing to Chelsea before bed, it dawned on me that this wouldn't last forever. In a few short years, I wouldn't be able to hold her in my arms like I do now and sing to her. I wouldn't be able to stare into her eyes and love her the same as I do now. Eventually, she is going to grow up. It's all very exciting and terribly heart-wrenching at the same time.

So what did I decide? I decided to cherish every moment I have with Chelsea. Every smile, every laugh, growl, poopy diaper, scream, cry, and mess I will cherish and remember that it may not last forever, but at least I have now.