Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Happy Birthday Meghan!


Oh honey, how did EIGHTEEN come so fast?

You've been waiting to be an official adult since about two days after you were born. I told you this day would come. So, how do you feel? I'll tell you how I feel-melancholy. I am having a hard time staying in the present. My mind keeps going back in time, eighteen years ago...

When the nurse gently placed a swaddled bundle in my arms I couldn't believe what I saw, fuzzy blond hair sticking up all over, and dimples so deep I would forever tease how I wanted to use them for my personal cereal bowls.

You gave me my first taste of mommyhood and I loved it. A blue-eyed blessing who squirmed until she got comfy in my lap, giggled at silly mommy-faces and squealed with toddler joy when you laid eyes on me after my long day at work. I fell in love with you each and every day.

Eighteen years ago my eyes were opened to something I'd never experienced before. Holding you, I understood what my own mother felt for me. Mother's love. The physical heaviness of it placed in my very arms on the second floor of an old hospital in Castro Valley, California.

I purchased a journal as soon as I knew you were growing in me. I thought I'd include a little bit of what I wrote after your birth:


The family went nuts when you were born. There were twenty-four people crowding the waiting room for your arrival. The nurses told us it was a new record at Eden Hospital. When they brought you to me later for your feeding I whispered, "You are so beautiful." Your eyes were wide open. You ate so well. I was so excited. I couldn't believe that I had my little girl. God has been so good to me. You weren't only healthy but beautiful too.
I loved you instantly.





November 10, 1991 at 3:02pm my heart doubled in size. As long as I'm alive I will be your biggest encourager and number one fan. God has an amazing plan for your life Meghan. I am sitting back and claiming my front row seat to watch you take His hand and soar on the heights.

Happy Birthday Sweetheart.

XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO

Colossians 3:12-17 The Message



17 comments:

Denise said...

Such a beautiful tribute to your dear daughter. I pray she has a day filled with many birthday blessings. This post really touched my heart, I truly wish I could have been a mom.

Mari said...

What a beautiful post. Happy Birthday to Meghan!

Beth in NC said...

She is beautiful just like her Mommy!

Faye said...

Joanne, what a beautiful post.Happy Birthday Meghan!Have a great day! Blessings, Faye

Angela Nazworth said...

Oh Joanne...so beautiful...she is so BLESSED

Unknown said...

Joanne,

You are such an amazing mom and what a beautiful daughter. Happy Birthday.

You inspire me. Have a great day. Hugs.

Sue Tornai said...

Joanne,

I hope Meghan knows what a GIFT she has in a mother. You are awesome! Happy Birthday Meghan.

Lauren said...

how sweet! This is such a beautiful birthday message for your daughter! I hope she has a wonderful wonderful day!

PS - GREAT pictures!!

christy rose said...

Joanne, Your daughter is absolutely beautiful!! Happy 18th birthday to her!!

Rachel said...

Birthday Wishes all the way from the east coast to the west coast!
May you enjoy your day Meghan.
You are a beautiful daughter.
I know your parents are proud of you!!
Rachel

Karen said...

One of the sweetest birthday tributes I have ever read...you and your daughter are both so blessed!

B His Girl said...

Happy Birthday Meghan! God does have His hand on you. Live for Him and you will never look back with regrets. He is EVERYTHING and you are His! Enjoy the journey.
Your Mom's New friend,
B

Barbara said...

Beautiful tribute for a beautiful young lady. She is blessed to have such a wonderful mom and you to have such a special daughter. Happy Birthday Mehgan!

Lisa Spence said...

Happy Birthday to your girl!

Aunt Angie said...

Happy Birthday Meghan!!!! Oh girl! What a ride God has for you!!!! JUST tuck in close to HIM and stay alert so you don't miss any of HIS surprises!!!

Joanne! I felt those tears you were shedding while you typed...they came to my eyes as I read!

WOW! 18!!!

God is awesome! How'd the cake turn out????

I love you all!

Tea with Tiffany said...

Another teary post for this mom as I read your heart. I know the feeling.

Happy Birthday to your Meghan.

The 10th is my dad and grandma's birthday. A special day for sure.

Hugs and love you.

Suzi K said...

So beautiful-made me want to cry! I don't want mine to grow up-why can't time just stay still!

Oh, and happy birthday!

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