When I was growing up, I always loved to hear my mom tell the story of how she picked my name. I would happily curl up next to her and listen intently as she told me for the hundredth time, that she had originally picked the name Christina for me, if I was a girl. And she planned to call me Tina. But, and she would make a big show of the word “but,” giving the word a … [Read more...]
10 Things I Wish I Knew When I Had My First Baby
Seventeen years ago I was hugely pregnant and watching the calendar roll further and further beyond my due date. When I did finally have my baby 10 days past that elusive date, I was thrilled. But I was also completely shocked at just how much real life differed from my fantasies about childbirth and new motherhood. I read the books and took all the courses. I thought I knew … [Read more...]
The Love Affair That Saved My Marriage
I wrapped my legs around him and sighed. For the first time in months I could finally sleep. I felt more than a little guilty. After five years of marriage, I had never spent the night wrapped up with anyone other than my husband. But here I was, caught up in a strange and exciting love affair. Phil was just too alluring to say no to. I must admit that I … [Read more...]
Dear Elizabeth’s Mom
Thirteen years ago a little baby girl with a head full of thick black hair made her way into the world. She screamed so loud that when we told the doctor her name, he looked up and said, “Elizabeth is too demure a name for such a noisy little girl.” Six weeks later I was cuddling my daughter when I looked down at her and experienced a panic that I’d never had before or … [Read more...]
Friendship Lost
The kids finally had their baths and were watching a movie. The craziness of the day was settling down. I knew this would be the best time to call Jill. It was 7:30 on a school night, surely she would be home. I missed speaking with her. Aside from a few brief “hellos,” “life is crazy right now,” and “call you back,” we hadn’t had a real conversation in about six … [Read more...]
