19 years ago

Hard to believe I gave birth to the most precious child in the world 19 years ago. Kris came into this world with a maturity that still amazes me. Her delivery was short and sweet and she has always been the one to try not to inconvenience any one that comes into her life. Born on August 1, 1990 at 9:03pm, she hardly made a peep when the glare of the lights hit her little face.

Having been the oldest of four children, I kind of knew what to expect with a little one. Changing diapers and feeding times, etc. But no where, no way, did ANYBODY prepare me for the "changing of the guard" at least five times a night. Lord, have mercy! That little peep at delivery time turned into a howling banshee at midnight, 1:30am, 2:45am, 4am, 5:50am and anytime in between when Poop Patrol was also on call.

Watching Kris grow through the years is an experience that I hold near and dear to my heart. I wasn't always the best mother in the world but I have done my best to prepare her for the real world. And there were times when she was the one to keep me grounded and give me advice. We are close and I am thankful for her existance in my life. We always like to brag on our offspring but I hope Kris presents herself to others as the sweet and kind person I know. And of course all parents hope their children actually execute their manners when they are away from home. "Elbows off the table. Please don't slurp or smack. Use your napkin!"

19 years ago I was resting in a hospital bed thinking, "Lord, please give me the strength to be the best mother I can be to this precious angel. And please give me the ability to explain right and wrong to her. And remind me to enjoy the little miracles that are in my life every day." Little did I know that as I was encouraging Kris to take her first step that I was also paving the road for me to become the person I am today.