30 Years

As it got close to Eva's first birthday I started to realize something. I felt like her birthday was important not only because she was turning one, but also because we had been together for a whole year! On her second birthday I felt the same way, like part of the celebration was for us being our own little family for two whole years.

So today on my own 30th birthday, I want to honor my wonderful mom who has lived life with me for 30 whole years as of today. I love my mom more than words could describe. She is one of my best friends and truly one of the most generous, loving people I know. She is always there to talk to or help me with anything. I may get suspicious that she loves Eva more than me (just kidding....) but I do love the way that she loves and supports me entire family.

Last week I sent her a few questions about our 30 years together. She was safely warned that I'd probably post them on my blog. Her are her responses.

1. What is one of your memories from the day I was born?
You weren’t supposed to be here for a month. I didn’t think I was in labor, until the doctor told me. Plus, you were born on the day of my baby shower. They had the shower without me and my girlfriend, who was also expecting, opened the presents. Then everyone came to the hospital, because I had you at 2:45 in the afternoon. I remember holding you and kissing your sweet little fingers and toes.

2. What is one thing about me that has changed over the past 30 years?
I see that you have become filled with a wondrous grace. You are such a good example for me to learn from.

3. What is one thing about me that has stayed the same?
I think you are still our “Cautious Kate” in many ways.

4. What is one unexpected change in our world/culture that you've seen or lived through the past 30 years?
Computers! I’m still amazed at how they have changed our world/culture. When you were born, they were these clunky, slow boxes, an incredible tool in the early eighties, and now they are so small and fast and can be used to do countless things. I often think about how they will morph into something completely different when Eva is grown.

5. In what ways am I most like you?
I think I am a very nurturing person. I see that same quality in you when I watch you with Eva and Ryan, and hear about how you are with your friends

6. In what ways am I most like Dad?
Well, you are very disciplined about exercise, and you might be a bit picky about food. Plus, you are good about how you handle finances, thrifty and careful. You also have both cheated at Monopoly. <That's totally true. I dare you to play a game of monopoly with me and my Dad.>

7. What was your life like the year you were 30?
As you know, 29 was an amazing year for me. When I was thirty, I had just started working as a massage therapist, which I really enjoyed. I also did some catering, I really liked that. I think I was rfinally becoming comfortable with who I was, as a woman, and what that meant.

8. What do you wish you knew at 30 or could tell your 30 year old self?
Try more new things. Also, keep challenging your mind with unknown experiences and ideas. I wish I had developed more discipline about taking care of myself.

9. What advice would you give me at 30?
Same as above, Plus, enjoy the small moments. Sing and dance with your child every day and tell your family you love them as often as possible.

10. What is your favorite memory of being my mom for 30 years?
There are so many to choose from. I love remembering when we both had strep throat and we watched Ann of Green Gables all day on a pallet in the den. I also remember the day you married Ryan as a wonderful day of possibilities. I felt like you were launched and really ready for your new life. I was so proud of you. But, I cant ever forget the day you became Eva’s Mama. So sweet!

Love you, Mom! Here is to our next 30 years!