Twenty Five Years Ago

...the first words I heard upon awakening from anethesia. An 8 lb. 13 oz. bundle of blue. Actually I was disappointed at the weight as I had been sure that this child had to be at least 15 pounds, maybe 20, so much had I gained, so uncomfortable had I been. But 8 lb. 13 oz., ... so the rest was really me, well after the water weight and they told me there was a lot of that! After a short induced labor a c-section was performed and thank God as the cord was wrapped around his neck. Again we had been given a miracle. His brother, five months shy of his ninth birthday, was our first miracle, a premie and an amazing story for his birthday!

Three more tries to get to today, tonight, 25 years ago ... he was born at 7:55pm; I didn't get to see him until the next morning. Even with sedation it had been a difficult birth and night and with IV's in both arms I wasn't able to hold him until later the next morning but when I did I was in total awe. Again, all I could say was thank you God, thank you God. For the first time full term had been achieved. For the first time I would go home with a baby in my arms.

And here, now, 25 years later, how did we get here so fast? I smile, I'm still in awe, I still marvel at the young men that are our sons. I think I always will.

Color my world

Three of us (myself and two of my ten) started taking drawing and now watercolor painting lessons (an item from my 60th and forward list). Been at it now about 6 months although I am still quite the novice. Actually if there was something before novice I think I would have that hands down! We started with the watercolor paints two months ago and with time off for the holidays we have only had about three classes for this medium. Our classes are every other week with the week in between we meet at one of our homes to practice the instruction of the last class, this also is our third practice session.

Two of us arrive this morning at her house ... a table had been painstakening set up with props for the drawing and watercoloring. Much thought and love was put into this array of subjects with the most beautiful music in the background, meditative. A mouth watering selection of eats were at hand with wonderful cups of vanilla flavored coffee. It was delectable.

We sketch out the subject(s), start to mix the paints, conversation slows and each one of us drifts into the peaceful serenity called watercolor painting. For a few hours there are no tightened muscles, no problem thoughts, anything of tension seems to dissipate.

It has been a good lesson, a very good lesson learned. Is it something I would frame, absolutely not but it will be signed, dated and treasured as I look at what I have created and count my blessings. How many in this world have had the morning that I experienced. I come away thinking of what is going on around me ... in my own surroundings the schools have been cancelled, they've called it a riot, a gang fight. A life has been taken, others severely injured. In Haiti an earth quake has claimed thousands upon thousands of lives and left many victims of pain and suffering ... we must pray. Devastation is everywhere.

I pray for all and I thank God for the color of my world.

Epiphany

The star burned like a flame, pointing the way to God,the King of Kings; the wise men saw the sign and brought their gifts in homage to their great King.

The Lord gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding. He reveals what is deep and hidden; all light has its source in him.