The Smile on Your Face

Earlier this week we had one of those moments I will remember for a long time.  We had just left the doctor at Northwestern and were coming off the elevator.  You called one of the girls to tell them the news and as you were talking I saw the smile on your face.  It reminded me that when I think of my favorite things (insert the Sound of Music song here), nothing will rank higher than remembering all the times I have seen that smile over the years.

It isn't just your normal smile.  I love that too.  You have always had a great smile.  When you laugh you are one of those rare people who smile with your whole face.  It is contagious.  It draws other people in and seems to make them smile too.  When you are having a good time it is so easily apparent because of your smile, that everyone else simply has to have a good time, just being around you.  I think a big part of that is because of your smile.

But the smile I am talking about is different.  It is kind of a private smile.  One that only people who really know you get to see.  The kind of smile you deserve for only truly special occasions and for people who are very close to you.  It is the smile you use when you are truly happy.  It is the smile that comes out when it is clear that nothing else matters other than the moment you are currently experiencing.  It is a special smile.

I can give you a good example of the smile I am talking about if you want to see it in a picture.  Find the picture of you in the hospital bed holding Kendall in your arms after she was born.   That is the smile I am talking about.  One that shows true joy and happiness.  There are many other moment where we caught it on film.  Meg's birth and many vacation moments quickly come to mind.  I am sure we could build a collage of them if we wanted to.

The best part of this smile is that when it happens it often last for a good long while.  Sometimes even carries over for days.  I love that.  You are always beautiful, but this smile makes you over the top beautiful.  Like your inner being has come to the surface for all to enjoy.  It is magical.  It is one of those things I always look forward to seeing.

So maybe the next time it happens I will tell you.  Or maybe not.  Maybe I will just keep it for myself and know that I am experiencing another amazing moment with you and cherish it like inhale all the others.

You're the world to me.  I love you more than anything in the world.