She's 28....

I was 22 and had no real idea of what being a mom would mean.  I was aware I loved you before I saw you.  I loved being pregnant.  When I was more than two weeks overdue I was so impatient.  Labour and delivery were no problem for me.  I felt serene.  I was so excited to hold you!

When I brought you home I was further smitten.  You were beautiful.  You were perfect.  You were content. 

Very quickly you began engaging!  You smiled and with wide eyed wonder took in your world.  You cooed and smiled even more.  You loved people.  You captivated your Grandma Verlyn.  She LOVED you!  You could not have been more adored by her.  She encouraged your curiosity.  She allowed your self expression.  She hugged and cuddled you.  She let you be rough.  She hung on your every word when you started talking. 

Two times especially you could have burst her heart with pride ~ You were three and you had a new cabbage patch doll.  When I asked you what you would name your baby you responded immediately, "Berlyn!"  You were four and we were at the kitchen table with Grandma Verlyn and her sister Gertrude who could have been her twin they looked so much alike.  It happened though that they often quarrelled and many times over the years went months without speaking.  This was a rare occasion that we sat together.  I don't know why but I said, "Jan - who does Aunt Gertie look like??" knowing of course you would say Grandma!  But no, you gazed seriously at Aunt Gertie for many minutes and then you looked at me and answered, "A giraffe."  You could not have had a better response according to Grandma.  I was mortified!  (and amused in spite of myself.)

You consistently asked me questions I couldn't answer.  I was so proud of you - always.  You amazed me with your wit, your charm, your smarts, your fun loving nature, your curiosity, your determination, your empathy, your compassion and so much more.  When you were 9 years old you asked me, "Is Ky just gay or is she gay with you?" 

As a teenager you were a leader, a motivator, a friend, a performer.  You were amazing.  You watched out for your brothers.  Everyone loved you.  I missed you.

As a young adult you were determined and focused.  You worked hard and played hard.  You lived life.  You took responsibility for yourself and you loved and supported your friends.  You were loyal.  You were animated.  I was proud of you.

You have developed into a beautiful, composed, confident, educated, loving, dedicated young woman.  I am so proud of your sense of yourself.  I love how you "need to know"!  I love your passion for helping people and making a difference.  I'm so proud of your choice for a partner ; )

Jan - you're great!  Take a deep breath tomorrow as you turn twenty-eight and acknowledge your perfection!  You are unique and just as God intended.

Love Mom