After we dropped the kids off at school today, Andy asked me “what were you doing 11 years ago today?”
It was about 8 am, and it didn’t take me long to think back. November 15, at 8 am, I had a newborn son on my chest. We were likely attempting to learn nursing, I was exhausted after being in the hospital since the 14th, and delivering him at about 3 am. There wasn’t much sleep happening. I felt and looked like a disaster, but felt, for the first time, like a mother.
Andy returned from calling our family. And the nurses were in and out. We tried to start catching some sleep. I vaguely remember the doctor arriving sometime in the morning. I remember staring down at this wee little being who I had carried for 9 plus months and feeling a mix of emotions. Elation of course, but fear.
He began my journey as a mother. And his role would change. Even as I held the title mom, he eventually took on the title of Big Brother, and he carries that title well.
Today we celebrate our son as he turns 11. Once upon a time, I would felt much more saddened at the passing of time, but I’ve come to see it all as a gift in many ways.
We celebrate a very special boy today and while we celebrate, I can’t help but think about what I was doing, and feeling, 11 years ago as well.
