Mommy Turns 35

Today is my birthday.

The highlights of my day were a phone call from (and great conversation with) my dad & stepmother and this awesome email from my mom:

I remember August 22 35 years ago like it was yesterday. The little futon I made waiting for you, the single dresser drawer that held everything we had for you (a couple dozen cloth diapers, some t-shirts and a couple of flannel kimonas I made with gender-neutral yellow ribbons at the neck for tying), the hours Dad spent writing down the times between contractions, the drive to the hospital with me sprawled out in the back seat, screaming, the wheel chair ride, holding my breath when they put the mask on (I didn't want to be put to sleep), waking up and a nurse telling me I had a daughter, and finally, seeing you for the first time, being surprised you had hair. I guess I thought all babies were born bald. We left the hospital before 24 hours were up. What a day. You were finally here, and I could gaze at you. You were beautiful then and you are now. Love, Mom

I think, now that I've been through labor myself, my mom's recollection of my own birth story is so much more poignant. What we go through to deliver children into this world is truly an act of bravery, love, anticipation, and surrender.

Thanks, Mom, for the beautiful email. I just had to share it here....and, I love you, too.