BECOMING A PARENT
Is It Worth It?
You know when I was 21 years old and pregnant, I had no idea what it would be like being a parent – the joys & the heartaches. Matter-of-fact, back then I didn’t know anything about having a baby.
Monday, November 6, 1967
5:00 am
The pains in my back woke me up as they raced around my hips colliding into each other.
“Wake up, Stoney. I think it’s time to go.”
I sat on the side of the bed grimacing as he finished shaving. As I turned to pick up my overnight bag, I heard him yell, “I’ll be right back. I’ve got to get some cigarettes.” I have to admit I was a little panicky as I saw his tail lights pull away. But he returned a few minutes later, and we took off on our 25-minute drive to Tiffin. Whew!
In those days I hadn’t heard of the Lamaze breathing method; I just naturally started singing “The Star Spangled Banner” to help take my mind off the excruciating pains. With each contraction I got a little louder, and Stoney drove a little faster. Yikes! By the time we turned left onto Market Street in Tiffin, I’m pretty sure we were going 90 mph.
My biggest worry when we finally reached the Emergency Room was the nurse would mistake my husband for the patient. Ha! He had cut himself shaving and blood was trickling down the front of his neck. I didn’t have to worry very long though because when I yelled “Oooooooh, say can you see…” one more time, the nurse pushed me into a wheelchair and rushed me off to the delivery area.
9:59 am
Our dark haired, blue-eyed little girl was born.
You know when I was 21 years old and pregnant, I had no idea what it would be like being a parent. And then at middle age, I didn’t know if I’d survive their teenage years. But now at my age, I can tell you with much confidence -- every joy & heartache has been worth it. It’ll Be OK.
“Oh, say, can you see
By the dawn's early light
What so proudly we hail'd…”
HAPPY BIRTHDAY #55, Misty! Love you!!!
Please, enjoy this video of my daughter, granddaughter & husband practicing Johnny Diaz’s “Just Breathe” — to help calm your day.
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“Before I became a parent, I didn’t know I could ruin someone’s day by asking them to put pants on.” ~ Rookie Moms
WHAT HAVE YOU ENJOYED MOST ABOUT PARENTHOOD?
I loved that song, and love your stories. I have 2 sons. My oldest born in Tulsa, OK with out either of our parents near by, I was clueless as well. My youngest born in old Tiffin Mercy as well, I thought something tragic had happened when I woke to a nun standing, praying over me, didn’t realize it was a Catholic Hospital. 🤪😳👶🏼
My son was born almost exactly one year later-11/8/68. Although I gave him up for adoption, he located me when he was 37. I’ve been blessed to be a part of his adult life and have totally embraced him, his wife, my 4 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. My other son is 38. Totally different, but both are wonderful men. I loved every moment I have had as a mom. No greater blessing! Your trio did a great job. You must be so proud of them all. Happy birthday to Misty!