My Present

Nine months and two days ago, my daughter was born two months premature. I didn't have time to get excited about anticipating her arrival, and when she did arrive, I was not at all excited about it . . . I was scared.

I felt a little cheated by her early arrival. I was excited to see how big my tummy would get. I was looking forward to getting all the baby stuff out of the closet. I was excited about setting up the kids' room and decorating for the two of them (still not decorated). I was looking forward to getting my hair done the day before she arrived (a little vain, I know, but I was still looking forward to it!). But, mostly, I was looking forward to that excited anticipation of going to the hospital. Of introducing her to Gibson at the hospital. All the new baby moments one looks forward to. But I didn't get any of them.

So, that is why I was so excited about my nephew's impending birth; I could hardly wait for him to arrive! I was almost as excited about his birth as I was about Gibson's birth three years ago. He is, so far, the only cousin my children have, and I would have loved to be there to greet him.

I am thrilled to say, Mason Kyle Winn made his appearance last night, and now shares my birthday. I couldn't ask for a better birthday present!

Post script added at 3:35 p.m. My best friend, Candice, had her daughter Davarie (pronounced Davv-er-AY) this morning around 10:30. I am doubly blessed on my birthday by having a nephew and a "niece" born today!!