Three Years Ago Today

Dear J-man,

Did you know that you were born three years ago today? It all started four days after your Bubba's and Esha's first birthdays when I stood in the kitchen, starring down the barrels of three (count 'em, three) positive pregnancy tests. I couldn't believe it, but the proof was staring me in the face. My body, my screwed-up, wtf-do-you-mean-I'm-supposed-to-ovulate? body had finally figured out this whole cycle thing all on its own and you came into being.

For those first few months, I was plenty-nauseous and annoyed by the whole affair. How the heck was I supposed to raise twin one-year-olds and keep house if all I wanted to do was lie on the couch and moan? But then? Then, you moved. And I felt you. And my heart sang.

Our doctor decided to induce our labor two weeks early since my blood pressure was elevated. I must say, I was so happy to meet you earlier than expected. The hospital called very early on Friday morning, May 11, 2007, and informed us they were ready. The pitocin was administered, my epidural was good to go, and I waited. Lucky for me, there was a Roseanne marathon showing on a local channel. As I settled in for a several-hour stretch, I shifted in bed and realized that even through the epidural, something felt different. I called the nurses' station, they checked your progress, and just three hours after the start of our journey, you were there, ready to make your entrance.

When I first saw you, I thought you a mix of your Bubba and Esha. I saw a little of my father in your face and you were just precious. At first, I didn't want to hold you too much because I didn't want to spoil you, but by the time we came home two days later, I gave in. You were too cute not to cuddle 24/7 and to this day, you're a cuddler.

Dear J-man, you're a sweet boy who is constantly off the hook. You talk non-stop, chase after your Bubba and Esha, and drive them crazy. You also love them unconditionally and make all of us laugh until we gasp and snort.

I love you. Happy third birthday little man!