mother's day 2007

this year, i am so blessed to be able to celebrate jenn as a the mother of our beloved daughter. i could go on and on naming the many ways in which i’ve already seen her exhibit the qualities one might expect to read within a number of Hallmark cards (the really expensive ones even!) – sacrifice (of time, energy, and her body), commitment, dedication, tenderness, thoughtfulness, love, and many more – but time does not permit me to do so.

one of the things, however, i’ve been most impressed with as i’ve watched her enter into this new role is how she has been able to truly make it her own. she has found fun and creative ways to transform the daily tasks often associated with mothering a new baby into experiences that are uniquely hers… and zuzu’s. here’s one of my favorite examples: often when breastfeeding, which occurs quite often (to reuse the word), jenn will take the opportunity to chat with zuzu, though, not just by way of simple small talk – “oh, you’re just so cute.” or, “well, aren’t you a hungry girl!?” instead, jenn will use the time to tell her little one a story about the summer vacations her family would take to maine when she was growing up, recount a tale about her time in elementary school and the friends she made there, or fill her in on details about individual family members – from parents and grandparents, to siblings, aunts, uncles, and cousins. in a way, it’s like zuzu is new in town and jenn has made it her mission to get her up to speed on all the important things she needs to know. like a new buddy showing her the ropes.

another of my favorites is the way in which jenn continually strives to provide top-notch entertainment for her little girl. singing popular songs from the 70s and 80s has often helped to keep zuzu awake during the daylight hours. other hits have included themesongs from some of our favorite childhood TV shows. “you take the good, you take the bad, you take them both, and there you have… the facts of life! the facts of life!” the brady bunch, three’s company, and the wonder years are others that have made the list.

i could not have asked for a better partner with whom to parent my child. i love you, jenn, and hope your first mother’s day will remain close to your heart forever!