I CAN

And you want more?

Hubby Dear asked me as the three of them jump on our bed, laughing their heads off with silliness. Yes, three. My niece is with us for the next couple of days. D and her get on like a house on fire. A, slowly easing into their 'clique'.

Yes, I promptly replied. I don't mind a third.

You sure?

Yes.

Hubby Dear and I often toil with the idea of expanding the brood. Now I know one thing - I don't want to get pregnant again. I am done carrying babies and going through labor. But adoption is an option we'd love to explore.

As much I like the idea of adopting a child, I have always wondered if I could love him as much I love my own. I often doubt my capability to open my heart with unconditional love to another being, someone who isn't a fruit of 'our' love.

But last night everything changed.

While I helped my beautiful niece get ready for bed and combed her long tresses, I was overwhelmed with the same intensity of love and admiration I have for D and A. All my trepidations, my insecurities ebbed away. Her innocence and vulnerability taking over me, stirring the mother in me.

And as I read a bedtime story and tucked them in the safety and comfort of their beds, I realized that I am capable. That I can open my heart and soul, embrace this being with all the love I have in me. It doesn't matter where he comes from. What matters is that he is mine and I will do everything I can to keep him safe, healthy and loved.