When I Feel Like Mommy

The first time I really felt like Divina's mommy was on April 28, 2005. She was in the tub and suddenly looked up at me and sort of studied my face. Then she said, clearly and strategically, "Mommy." She named me.

In the past few months another thing has happened that makes me feel it. When we are in uncertain situations, meeting a new person or animal, Divina quickly retreat behind me and peers around my legs at the suspicious specimen. She knows I'll protect her and tell her when its safe.

Three years has gone by so quickly. I remember when we got the call. It was 3pm and I had just finished cleaning my desk at work in preparation for my week off. I knew the call would be coming any day now. As I put the last thing away, I sort of brushed my hands accross the desk and said "Well, the baby can come now. I'm ready." The church's custodian, Robert, was visiting the office. Just then my phone rang and it was Priscilla from Coleman Adoption Agency. She said that A was at the hospital, in labor, and the C-section would probably be by night. I got in the car and drove down to Bloomington, an hour's drive. Mark finished his work and came right away in his own car. Just as soon as I parked the car at the hospital, I heard someone call my name. It was A! She'd gone out for a smoke. (Heh.) We walked in the hospital together, arm in arm. Divina was born about two hours later, with Mark and I there together. My mom and sister arrived shortly after that.

Three months later I locked her in the car, parked in the sun, and six firemen and a police woman had to pry the door open to get her out.

Today she and Mark were seeing who could fart the loudest.

Life is good.