.JPG)
I can't believe I became a mommy for the first time EIGHT years ago! My sweet Sam made us a family on February 25, 2000. That was the year of Y2K if you'll remember, and everyone was freaked out that the world as we knew it was going to come crashing down on Jan 1st 2000. The new millenium. People were storing up extra canned goods and water even if they didn't openly admit it. I was freaked out enough with the labor experience looming overhead. It didn't help to watch people go all "chicken little"- our neighbor built some sort of special shelter and stored food rations "just in case". I mean we mocked him but also kept in the back of our minds that it doesn't hurt to be on the inside with one local nut job in case of emergency.
Well, the new year came and went without incident. The hospital was ready and waiting for me on the cold morning of February 25th, 2000. I had to be induced because of my pregnancy induced pre-ecclampsia (high blood pressure). So I checked my swollen ankles and bloated face into the hospital and pensively settled into the hospital bed awaiting the pitosin to kick in and start what I can only explain as the most terrifying unknown I have ever experienced. How long will it take? How much will it hurt? Will the baby be ok? Will I be ok? What if I scream? What if I cuss? What if I POOP?!
Slowly the reality of labor pains started mounting and it was creepy yet interesting to watch them peak and valley on the monitor. I could hear the baby's heartbeat the whole time whooshing away. I was feeling so many things beyond the pain and anxiety- like a deep compassion for this little person who was about to go through his first of many difficult experiences in this life. What a strange entrance into this world.
After some crazy pain I cannot describe, miraculous relief from the spinal, several awkward but apparently "text book" pushes (that must be a standard nurse cheer). I experienced a joy, euphoria, adrenaline rush that I never knew you could experience here on earth. This slimy, wriggly, beautiful boy entered our lives and would change us forever.
I marvel at how much has happened in his short little lifetime. Good times and yucky times- our Sammy and his sisters always bring us back to what is most important. We hope we are teaching him all he needs to know to be good person but most importantly a man of God. Sam has taught me as much as I have taught him. I love you sweet Sam. I'm so glad Jesus allowed me to be your mommy!
