This week, my 4-year-old told me that she wanted to hug me forever. I assured her that we could hug each other anytime and for however long she wanted to. I told her that I would love to have her hugs all the time and that I could live with her sweet arms wrapped around me.

I’ve been thinking a lot about her hugs lately and how grateful I am to have them. They are one of the best things in this world. In fact, I tell other people about her hugs and how amazing they are. Yes, I am in love with my child and proud of it.

So, what is so special about her hugs you ask?

Sisterly HugLet me tell you about them. First, her eyes light up and she gets this almost mischievous look on her face as she crinkles up her little nose. Then, she swings her arms back like an Olympic runner about to take off from a starting block, and then away she goes. Her first mission is to knock you over with her love, and she giggles the entire time. Then, she flings her arms around your neck and presses her cheek right up against yours. She clasps those little arms together and squeezes as much as her little 30 pound body can muscle. She even makes little noises out of the work she is putting into the most amazing hug you’ve ever been given. And, she doesn’t let go…for minutes. You literally have to pry her arms from around your neck. If she is feeling extra spunky, she’ll even wrap her legs around you in a full body hug.

She puts this kind of effort into every hug she gives. I wish there was a way that I could save how this feels my whole life. I know she won’t be giving me these kind of hugs forever. For now, I just know I’m going to hug her so tight and be extremely grateful that I have her to hold right now. She is the light of my life.

Hug your children, be present in every one of these moments, and think about how it feels. Write it down, take photos and never, ever forget.