July 11
As we counted down the days (after all today is one day closer to your birth … no matter how you slice it), we spent a lot if time listening and observing. One time of day that is particularly amusing is around 3:pm when the volunteer (not some young candy striper, but little old ladies) come down the hall, pushing (or are they holding on to the cart for support – like an uncontrollable walker, the wheels going in four opposite directions , at the same time) … a Cart laden with Chocolate Bars, Chips, Peanuts and other assorted goodies. You would think it was the Good Humor Truck on a sweltering day in the summer, at a Kid’s Park, the way the mothers run out, tripping over each other, day after day to get their fix. Unfortunately for the Moms In Waiting, a fix for them is a fix for their Babies who react to the sugar high by kicking their Moms in the ribs so violently, in such an aggressive, antsy manner, they almost feel insulted.
Meanwhile, Baby of Mine, you stretch, extend your arms and legs, yawning, hiccupping, rolling over with tender care taken to not hurt me. Thank you, Baby. It solidifies the feeling I have that I must enjoy every second of the just “you and me” time since the minute you are born you will be assaulted (with the best intentions) of the world and its’ peoples (hanger on-ers) … at large and all of its’ influences, both good and evil.
July 14
Although it is your Grampsey’s birthday today and you have officially passed your July 13 ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival), all is quiet on the Western Front. No sign of pushing & shoving your way in to our world. The twins, a robust 5 pound girl and a 4.5 pound boy child are delivered without incidence (praise God) by C Section to the Mom Later In Life. She is a strong determined Mother and the same day is on her feet, up at the nursery reveling in joy and satisfaction.
I have to admit every time I hear of a successful delivery of a healthy baby I think of the odds and wonder where and when that Roulette Wheel will pounce on some unsuspecting family, reeking havoc. Everyone knows odds being what they are, after so many healthy babies are born, a chance based on age of mother, condition during pregnancy, medical history can affect the outcome so I selfishly look at the happy new Moms and their beautiful babies and keep my fingers crossed.
Please God, hear my prayers, not just the smartest baby (I admit I was that foolish – be careful what you wish for), but a thriving baby who will one day be an adult, contributing his/her assets to a world that is in need of compassion and justice.