Look at Her!

Look at her!

She was born

early on a Tuesday morn.

Her eyes are gray,

with a hint of blue

and her limbs are long and sinewy.

With mother, Elise

and father, Chris,

she entered the world

filled with bliss

and enough love to last a lifetime.

There is nothing like a newborn babe

to show us what really matters.

It's how we stay 

connected forever

sharing a love that nothing can sever.

Christmas, 1983

Nearing our first Christmas!
What a beautiful day it was today. After getting out my invitations for Open House, I dropped you off at Jill's and had a delightful time Christmas shopping. On my way to the library to take in some refreshments, I looked up and saw a full moon hovering over the mountains. It wasn't yet dark and the sky was dark blue. What a sight! I was stunned. There are many times when one is struck by the beauty of this place. You don't have to go far to find it. When I picked you up at Jill's I was invited to dinner. It turned out to be a feast prepared by some friends of theirs. You were really a hit and got passed around quite a bit. The Lunas' German exchange student took care of you for a while. You enjoyed the many faces and all the activity. You're such a good baby! How lucky I am! You're going to be fun in the years to come. A package arrived in the mail today. In it were some dolls that your cousin Nick sent "with all his love."

Tonight after you woke up crying, I placed you in my arms so you could see the full moon outside your window. We admired it for quite a long time together. The boat parade tonight was beautiful.

My divorce will soon be final and I hope my bitterness can transform itself into something positive by planning for our open house, fixing up your room, reading, and inviting friends over. You are my reason for the season.

Clear beautiful sunny cold days.
Nearing Christmas, our first!
The boats made a spectacular
sight tonight,
All lined up
Just for us!

We saw bald eagles twice last week!

December 28, 1983

We had our first Christmas together a few days ago, on the island where I met your father. Memories of a happy time...

The days continue to be crisp, clear, and lovely. The other day, while you slept,
I watched the sunset over the water.
I was waiting for our guess to arrive.
What a joy to have friends over! The house came alive with laughter and good conversation.
The tree looks lovely, as does the entire house. Another Alaska print would make it complete. I like this place! Some packages arrived yesterday from your great aunt and uncle Wodaski and great grandmother Zukoski. Also from your grandparents. I can't wait for you to meet the rest of your family. Aunts, uncles, grandparents, and cousins. You're sure to be quite a hit.

The divorce becomes final tomorrow. I'm willing to do what's necessary to help you have a positive relationship with your dad. He loves you and wants to spend time with you. I looked down at you as you were sleeping just now, precious baby. The family is just you and me now. We'll have to help each other. I can be strong for you.

Chris' Poem: November 19, 1983

As I was rocking you in your room tonight, little one,
I looked down at you
And then up
And then up
And saw a clear starry night and
A full moon
And I had the feeling that the
Whole universe was nodding in approval.

What I want for you...
Is that you maintain your sweet disposition.
That in being loved, you will love.
That you be kind, generous, and considerate.
I will let you choose your own path.
You will always be accepted by me, into our home.
How amazing that one so small has so much to give.
Your smile lights up my day, my life.
May you enter the world with self confidence
And hope and peace in your heart.
How glad I am that you chose me to be your mother.

I bounced you on my knee and sang to you
And you laughed with glee. What fun you are, little one!
The sun is shining brightly on this beautiful winter day.
While you napped, I took a walk by the sea,
And watched the waves lapping
Gently against the shore.
The mountains are snow-capped now.
I thought back to the many walks we took
Together before we were born.
I think of the fun we'll have as you grow older,
Walking and talking together.
May you grow to love and appreciate this place, my son.

When I was carrying you,
I often heard something within me saying,
"Be strong!"
I still hear that voice.
It was as if God was telling me to
Have faith, that all would be well.
That there was an important reason for me to hold on,
And you were the reason.

What a handsome boy you are.
Long lashes, long sensitive fingers.