Monday, March 17, 2008

23 years ago today...

Nick and Grace 2 yrs. ago.

Age 15 on the high school football team.

Here he's 9.


Age 3yrs.



Little Nicholas-14mos.




23 years ago today (gosh that seems a long time ago), I became a mother for the first time. I was in my mid 20's when I had my first child, Nicholas Andrew at 2:15 AM at Christ Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio. Nicholas was a big guy weighing in at 8 lbs. 13 oz. or roughly 4kg. And he was almost 2 weeks early! I would have had a c-section for sure if he'd been full term. My labor and delivery was fast, only a total of about 5 hours. Nicholas came out screaming... a healthy cry. I was overjoyed. We called our parents right away with the news, Nick was the first Grandchild born on both sides of our families. Nick looked so much like my father that it was uncanny...I remember telling my dad on the phone, "Dad he looks just like you!" Typing these words bring tears to my eyes remembering how happy I was becoming a mother. Nick is my joy, my soul mate in many ways, and my heart. I would describe him as being sensitive, compassionate, responsible, dedicated to family and friends, and having an extremely funny sense of humor. He has grown into the kind of young man I had hoped, dreamed and prayed he would. He and I have gone through a lot on this journey of life, my divorce, moves, and a second marriage. We both survived the teens without too much damage. Dan and I have been so fortunate to know his friends well and they have been a part of our lives also which I appreciate. I have sure learned a lot about baseball, football and hockey from watching him play those sports. I was a hockey mom for a lot of years as Nick played hockey from the time he was a little boy through high school. I have learned from my own parents that being a parent doesn't end when your child leaves home, they need us there to support and guide, and always, always be there for them. Enjoy this journey as a mother, because it goes by in the blink of an eye. It seems like yesterday that I was holding my newborn baby boy in my arms. I never knew how much you could love someone until I became a mother to both Nicholas and Grace...and for that I thank God every single day for my children. Happy Birthday Nick, I love you so very much. XOXO Mom

13 kind words:

Steffie B. said...

what a cute little boy to a grown up handsome man.....beautiful post Momma! ;)

Kristin said...

Love the birthday tribute! Happy Birthday to both mom and son--
Kristin

Ashley said...

oh Gail, that was such a beautiful post! (I need a tissue!) You must be so proud of him. He was such a cute baby! Yes, they do grow up so fast. I loved all the photos. He has grown into such a handsome young man. I'm sure he is such a light in your life. Happy birthday to Nick, and hugs for his special mom. You have a blessed and beautiful family.
love, Ashley

Angie said...

Happy Birthday, Nick!

What a sweet post, Gail! There is just something special about a Mama and her son, isn't there? He sounds like such a wonderful man and for that I am sure you are proud and grateful. I hope you all have a great day celebrating!

Great pictures! What a cutie he was and what a handsome guy he is now! I think he looks like you!

Gail said...

Yes, Nick looks a great deal like me. I look like my Dad. It's kind of hard to see yourself sometimes in your children. :)

OH MY #6 said...

What a touching post. He looks like he is a wonderful boy. And, the mom thing has a lot to do with that.

Have a good day.

How was finger printing?

Lea

OH MY #6 said...

we only have to redo our local police check. We don't have to do the finger printing again. Funny how it all differs. Our current paper work expires April 30 and we have requested a 6-month extension. By then end of October we will have to have everything else redone. But, not the finger printing.

Lea

Brandi said...

Great post, Gail! The pride you have for your son really comes through in your post.

Happy Birthday, Nick! You've grown into a wonderful, handsome young man and have made your mom so proud! Party safely!

Paula said...

Gail,
Thanks so much for sharing your story. It is almost identical to mine. My older daughter is 19 now. Like you and nicholas, we went through a lot together. He sure was a cute boy that grew into a handsome young man.
I know what you mean about time flying by...its true. I feel so blessed to be able to be a mom for the 2nd time around.

Unknown said...

Sounds like you have a great "little" boy on your hands!

A Mom- In-W8ing said...

What a beautiful and touching post! Love the timeline of photos. He certainly is a handsome man.

Happy Birthday Nick! Enjoy your day!

Smiles! :o)
Nikki

Denise C said...

OH Gail...what a beautiful loving birthday post about your sweet son! B-day wishes from the Crockett's!!!

You truly are one blessed Mommy!!
Love and Prayers,
Denise

Kathleen Coyle Jursa said...

I love this post, what a gift. Happy Birthday Nick! I'm sure Nick has grown into an incredible adult. It has been way to long since we have seen each other. Nick was always such a nice person and a gentle wise way about him. It would be great to see all of you one day soon.

 
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