A Mother's Love

Each year on my birthday, since I've been grown up, Mama would tell me the story of when I was born. I never tired of hearing it. Then in 2002 she sent me the story in a letter. I have it pasted in my diary, there to treasure forever. With her permission, here it is, with name-changes and initials to protect the Mouse's family.

Dear Joanna,

Aside from this funny card, I just want you to know that Sept. 11 will always remain in my mind as the day we welcomed a tiny little baby girl into our family. I was so happy that I now had a little girl. I enjoyed having you all through the years, and still do.

The morning that you were born, I guess I have told you before, C. was at work. I started having labor pains about midnight. Mama and Papa lived downstairs, so I didn't bother them. I saw no reason to. I dressed and sat up all night. I had my little suitcase all packed. C. didn't get home until about 8 A.M., but about that time I felt it was time to go to the hospital. I had called Dr. C., and he said to go to the hospital. I called a cab and went to the hospital. Out to the cab I met C. coming in from work. I told him I was going to the hospital, and he said he would come over later after he got cleaned up. He did get there by the time you arrived. So everything turned out well. Dr. C. had examined me and figured you wouldn't arrive for a few hours, but before he left the hospital, you had other plans and at once you were on your way! They got him before he left the hospital and he came back and delivered you, so everything turned out okay. Isn't this an exciting story?

Love, Mama

P.S. I remember after I got back to my room, they brought you in for us to see, and you were blinking your eyes, trying to see.

Other things I remember Mama telling me: that I was so tiny (not a preemie), the first time she went to give me a bath, she said I looked like a little 5-pound roasting chicken! ::grin:: And that Dr. O., the pediatrician, had said, "We're going to try to keep this little baby." because I was having trouble keeping down formula and maintaining weight. Anyway, Mama did good and here I am.  

Mama, I know we're not a "sappy" family; but I just want to say I love you, for all that you are and all that you've done for me, for all of us, all these years. You're the best!

~*~ Mother-love, a poem ~*~

Mother

If I could give you diamonds
For each tear you cried for me
If I could give you sapphires
For each truth you've helped me see

If I could give you rubies
For the heartache that you've known
If I could give you pearls
For the wisdom that you've shown

Then you'd have a treasure, mother,
That would mount up to the skies
That would almost match
The sparkle in your kind and loving eyes.

But I have no pearls, no diamonds,
As I'm sure you're well aware
So I'll give you gifts more precious:
My devotion, love, and care.

~ Unknown ~