Things to melt your heart part 3

The boy seems to be going through a particularly affectionate phase.
Of course I'm ignoring any mention of an Oedipus complex and just enjoying the copious hugs and kisses. I know that I have a son and as such my time getting kisses and hugs from him is seriously limited.
Whereas girls tend to remain relatively affectionate into their teenage years and adulthood, I know a time will come when the boy will shrug off my kisses and hugs because "it's so not cool, mum". He might even swear, or refuse to talk to me at all. Our conversations may become a series of grunts and sniffs. I am mentally preparing myself for that - and it's not easy.
So I'm revelling in his desire to tell me he loves me and that I am the best mummy in the world. (Yes, I do know it is wrong on some level to look for reassurance from a four year old, but I'm neurotic, get over it).

So anyway yesterday morning I was getting him ready for school and showed him my new "I got to number 2 in the charts" ring, and the following conversation ensued.

J: Mummy, why do girls wear rings?
M: Because we like shiny things* and they are pretty.
J: And boys don't wear rings?
M: Some boys do. Daddy wears a ring, it's because him and mummy got married.
J: *pained look* But I wanted to marry you mummy.
M: It's okay sweetie Mummy loves you very much.
J: Can you buy me a wedding ring so we can get married too?

* Yes, I know I'm stereotyping, but admit it, we women do like shiny things.

Things to melt your heart part 2

Behold "The Peanut" aka the niece or nephew at 16 weeks gestation.

This my sister's second little bubba who is due in September.

I'm dealing with my broodiness by watching her pregnancy develop and ogling all the ickle baby tiny things in the shops that I shall buy for this little one.

No matter how many times you see ultrasound pictures there is always, always something in you that thinks "What a miracle" when you see another one.

Hello Peanut. I'm your auntie Claire. I will always have tall tales to tell, a car with a baby seat in just for you, the ability to sing 'Horsey Horsey' on a loop without losing the will to live and a big cousin who has already promised he will teach you how to use a slide. Get here safe, we can't wait to meet you. x

Things to melt your heart part 1

When I got up for work this morning the boy was still asleep. Usually as soon as he hears me move from the bed he's awake and as bright as a button looking to have a bit of craic before pleading with me not to go to work and stay with him instead.

This morning though, he stayed out for the count and I kissed his wee sweaty head, rubbed his wee cheek and told him I loved him before creeping out of the house. (He was left in the care of his daddy, just in case you wondered).

Anyway, my phone rings at work just before 11 and it is the boy. He wants to talk to me and he sounds all teary and emotional.

"Mummy, mummy, I forgot to give you something. I really wanted to give you something this morning but you went to work."

"What sweetie," I asked (while trying not to focus on the fact he has JUST woken up).

"A kiss and a cuddle mummy. I love you."


Me. Desk. Heart bursting. Tears.