Happy Birthday Alyson!

Twenty four years ago at this time, I was in labor eagerly anticipating the birth of my daughter. After months of expectant waiting, I was about to cross over into the unknown world of being a mommy. I had carefully prepared everything for her arrival. The nursery was properly decorated and supplied with everything necessary for my little princess to thrive. I had read the books and taken the classes to prepare myself to care for a newborn. I had expectations and hopes and dreams of all that her tiny, precious life would be.

At that  point in my life, I questioned everything. I wondered what she'd look like, what color would her hair be? Would she have a mild temperament? Would she sleep through the night? Would I hear her if she woke up? How would I know what her needs are? Would I be a good parent? Would I be able to provide for her needs? Would I be able to teach her right and wrong without making her hate me? Would I raise a child that would go on to achieve her own dreams or would I cripple her by forcing my own dreams on her?

I was instantly in love with my darling child and everything in my world turned upside down the moment I saw her sweet face. Suddenly, my wants and needs and hopes and dreams had very little to do with me and nearly everything to do with her. There was nothing in the world as important as that little girl.

Twenty four years later, that darling little girl is a grown woman who bears resemblance to her momma in looks, but holds a personality that is 100% her own. She is fiercely loyal, intelligent, adventurous, risky and fun. She cares deeply, lives life passionately, and will chew you up and spit you out if you wound her soul.

I thank God for the privilege of parenting. I thank God that in spite of my inabilities and screw ups, each of
my children turned out to be decent people. I thank God for each memory from infancy to Junior High (ok, maybe I'd like to forget a few of the Junior High memories) to College and beyond.

This weekend I celebrate Alyson's 24th birthday. Every single day I celebrate MY CHILD.