Today was cold and snowy. There has been a trucker's strike because of the oil crisis; yes we have to wait for the even days to get our gas! You were due in March, but since I have had some heavy bleeding Dr. Toot predicted you would come early and you did!
I had my dad drive me to Hunterdon Medical Center last night because your dad is a terrible driver, especially in the snow. But your dad is here with me and that is all that matters. We are just kids really, we have no business having a child, but we promise to love you!
I was in labor for over 16 hours...yikes! And it was a back labor! I learned about back labors during Lamaze classes (yes, your dad attended the classes too). However, I packed golf balls instead of tennis balls (like I really knew there was a difference!), so when I put the golf balls under my back the pain increased. It took a smart mouthed Intern to point out my mistake. It was also the same Intern that argued with Dr. Toot saying something about me having a "vaginal birth"; he actually yelled at Dr. Toot saying that you would not survive a "vaginal birth" because I needed a "Cesarean section"? I have no idea what they were talking about, but after they told me to "push" they used forceps to try and move you. I heard them say you were face up and stuck. They pushed on my stomach and it hurt. I was scared; your dad was scared. You finally arrived and they put you on a table...but you didn't make a sound. They said something about a two or three Apgar Score and rushed you into the next room. Your dad and I looked at each other deeply in the eye; we were both so afraid! We were afraid we would never get to know you. Then I said a prayer to God to let me have you at least for a while. I told God I would love you and try to be a good mommy. I promised I would be less self-centered and become baby-centered. They tears fell from my eyes and from your dad's eyes.
Then we heard your cry...your dad and I laughed through our tears and he yelled "That's my boy!". You were finally here, our baby, our boy, our pride and joy!
Thomas after your dad, and Alexander after your grandfather...Thomas Alexander Brown. Welcome to this world precious Tommy...not just for a while but for a life time!
