Treasured

2010 – pain shot through my breasts. It was a feeling I had never witnessed. And all of this was while I was out of town for a journalism seminar. Was I having multiple heart attacks? What was going on?

Turns out I was pregnant. My due date was January 18, 2011.

As the days inched closer to my daughter’s impending birth I continued to wonder about the little wonder growing inside of me. I have to admit, when I found out I was having a girl I was somewhat disappointed. Not disappointed in the sense of anger, I just had it in my head my first kid would be a boy – who in turn would look out for his little sister.

But as it turns out I couldn’t be more happy that I had my daughter first. She is such a natural at nurturing and caring for others. The moment I found out my grandmother died it was just me and the kids. At just two years old, Kura immediately sensed something was wrong and it was Kura who wiped my tears.

If her little brother cries – Kura is there – sometimes faster than me. The moment she opens her eyes in the morning, she goes over to her brother's bed to check on him.

 

 In just her three years on this Earth she has taught me so much about life and myself. I should have known what joy she would bring to my life. While most people complain about pregnancy – carrying Kura was easier than I ever imagined.

Morning sickness didn’t last long and I cannot remember a single complication. Labor was easy, too.  (Yes, I still had an epidural, my mama ain’t raise no fool)

I was admitted in the hospital at about 8 a.m. and by 5:30 p.m., just a day after my projected due date -- one of my greatest treasures was in this world.  In fact, the name Kura means treasure house in Japanese. (I bet you thought her name was made up)

And as I think back over these last three years -- my life has changed so much. My life now revolves around my kids. Friday is usually “hair day” – which consists of me fighting Kura to sit still and her telling me “that hurts!” or “stop ma-ma!” I don’t remember what I did on the regular before I met my baby girl.

And as we prepare to celebrate her birthday – I think of the many more birthdays to come. Soon she won’t think I’m the best thing ever. Soon she won't watch me in the mirror as I get ready and try to imitate every move I make. One day when I come home from work she won’t run to the door to the door to greet me. But until that happens I will treasure every moment with her.

Happy Birthday mommy’s baby!