A post of gratitude...

I wanted to take a minute to thank two very special women in my life - my friend Brooke and my Mom.

When I started writing my birth plan, my midwife told me to consider very carefully who I wanted to be present for Lola's birth. Obviously, I needed Ted there, but when it came to others, I was not totally sure who I would want there, and what I would need from them.  After a lot of thought, I asked Brooke if she would like to be there. Turned out to be a great decision - Brooke was a combo coach, doula, comedian, and friend.  When I freaked out after the first epidural didn't work and ripped off my blood pressure cuff and threw the pulse ox meter across the room, she told me I could keep going.  She asked lots of questions, walked with me, and let me whine whenever I needed to.  It was about 48 hours of the most active friendship I can imagine and I want to thank her with all my heart.  Lola will always love her aunt Brookie, and so will I.

As for my Mom, no blog post can do justice to the love and appreciation I have for her during this awesome time in my life.  To share Lola's birth and first week or so with her has been awesome, and the extra set of knowledgeable hands has been the best gift I can imagine.  Watching Mom look at Lola makes me acutely aware of the love she has, and always has had, for me.  I love you Mom, and Lola will always know how very lucky she is to have you in her life.  Ted took some great 3 generation photos last night that I will post soon so everyone can see the adoration.  Happy early Mother's Day!