MelanieA year later

It's hard to believe it's been a year already. A year since Marcus and I found out we were going to be parents. A year since our lives changed in ways we could never have imagined. And now, as I watch our baby girl cooing and giggling in her crib, I can't help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude and happiness.

She's three months old now, a tiny bundle of joy who has completely stolen our hearts. We named her Lily, a name that seemed perfect for our little miracle. Her tiny fingers wrap around mine as I gently pick her up, her bright eyes sparkling with curiosity.

"Good morning, my sweet Lily," I whisper, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. She responds with a gurgle of delight, her tiny hands reaching out to grab at my hair.

I can't help but smile as I cradle her close to my chest, feeling the warmth of her little body against mine. Being a mother has been the most incredible experience of my life, surpassing all my expectations and filling me with a love I never knew was possible.

As I make my way to the kitchen, Lily nestled in my arms, I find Marcus already there, preparing breakfast with a smile on his face. His eyes light up when he sees us, and he sets down the spatula he's holding to come over and give us both a kiss.

"Good morning, my beautiful girls," he says, his voice filled with love and adoration.

"Good morning, Daddy," I reply, feeling a surge of happiness at the sight of him.

Marcus leans in to press a kiss to Lily's tiny cheek, causing her to let out a delighted squeal. He then turns his attention to me, his arms wrapping around my waist as he pulls me close.

"How did you sleep?" he asks, his concern evident in his voice.

"Like a baby," I reply with a laugh, earning a playful swat on the arm from Marcus.

He chuckles, his eyes crinkling at the corners with amusement. "Well, I'm glad someone did," he teases, earning another swat from me in return.

We fall into an easy rhythm as we finish preparing breakfast together, Lily cooing happily in my arms the whole time. It's moments like these that make me realize just how lucky I am to have Marcus by my side, supporting me every step of the way.

After breakfast, Marcus and I take turns feeding Lily and getting her ready for the day ahead. It's a routine we've fallen into naturally, each of us taking on whatever tasks need to be done without hesitation. Parenthood has brought us closer together in ways I never could have imagined, strengthening the bond between us and deepening our love for each other.

As I watch Marcus cradling Lily in his arms, singing softly to her as he rocks her back and forth, my heart swells with love for both of them. I never knew I could be this happy, this content with my life. But here I am, surrounded by love and laughter, with the two people who mean everything to me.

I know that there's nowhere else I'd rather be. With Marcus by my side and Lily in my arms, I have everything I've ever wanted and more. And for that, I am truly grateful.