Happy Birthday, Jessica!

31 years ago today, I became a mother. It is a role that I have enjoyed and that I think has suited me well. But this isn't really going to be about me. Jessica came into our lives 3 weeks past her due date during a heat wave that had lasted for over a week, and was breaking lots of heat index records. She literally had to be pried out of me by c-section after a long and hard 24 hours of labor. All that didn't matter, really, when I saw her. She did not look like a newborn. She had long black hair and smooth peach colored skin. It was love at first sight, and she has been a joy and a blessing to me ever since! Jessica is a typical "oldest child". She likes to take charge, is a people pleaser and has a passion to achieve. She is tender hearted, but can also be very firm in her committments. I am very proud of her and the woman that she has become. Jessica: you have blessed my life and brought me many years of joy. I love you and hope you have a great birthday!