While at the pool, Halle bounced happily over to me.
“Daddy, when is my mommy going to come?”
I caught my breath and stuttered a bit. I drew her close. “Honey, don’t you remember? Mommy died.”
“No, Daddy!” she said indignantly, “My other mommy.”
This made it obvious to me (and I asked in order to clarify) that she was asking about a “new” mommy. I informed her that I don’t know but that I keep hoping and praying to find her soon.
As with so many things, I have to wonder what her perception is of all of this. It’s entirely innocent. The lack of pain her own voice makes it both easier and harder to hear her ask such things.
I didn’t think to tell her at the time, but I’m so thankful to all the women in our lives who love on my kids and show them that tenderness that doesn’t come so naturally to us guys. And I know how much my kids appreciate it, too, even if they don’t have the words to express it.
Logan, Jim, and I pray for a new mommy for Halle and Brady every night, and we pray for extra love and patience during the wait!
We love you three, Stephanie, and the “new” mommy already!