A Letter to the Panda

Dear Panda,

We hope you've enjoyed your accommodations for the last 38 (almost 39) weeks. You've been so good to Molly, letting her sleep (most of the time) and not challenging her with too many pregnancy-related ailments. 

We wonder if you'll really like cereal and milk or peanut m&m's when you grow up. Molly certainly didn't like either of those snacks before you came around.

We have so many hopes and dreams for you. That you'll be happy, healthy, and successful in whatever way you define success. You'll make some mistakes, and we hope you learn from them. And we hope you'll forgive us for the mistakes we're bound to make. You will face new challenges throughout your life. Don't worry about having everything planned out and knowing what exact goal you are heading for, except the goal of experiencing new adventures with love and companionship. 

From Josh we hope you'll learn to be handy and scientific. From Molly we hope que aprendas a hablar espanol. And we're excited about all the things we'll learn from you as well.

You're already surrounded by family and friends who love you immensely, including a dog that is patient and sweet. She may sniff you and encourage you to chase her even before you're mobile, but she'll also let you lean on her and pull on her as you learn how to stand up and walk.

Thank you for not coming early - allowing us the time to get the house in the best possible shape for your arrival.

We love you.

P.S. Please be nice to Molly during labor.