I am thankful for my journal and journaling. I began journaling when Charlie was just a few months old. I’d never been too good at keeping a journal but remember reading online somewhere that it was a good idea for birthmoms to keep a journal. It sounded like a good idea to me. It would be a good way to get my feelings out, to recognize my feelings, and to later see where I had grown emotionally.

I didn’t journal every day; just when I felt the need or when something happened that made me sad or when Charlie passed a milestone or there was something that I knew I’d want to remember later.

I journaled a random moment when A and S brought Charlie to the restaurant where I waitressed.

Wednesday, Januray 23, 2002
A, S, N, and Charlie came in the restaurant tonight. They called first and made sure I was ok with it and I said yes. He is getting so big! It was a slow night, so I was able to hold him a lot and took him back in the kitchen to show him off to the kitchen staff. I really do make cute babies! :)

I journaled when Charlie got his first tooth.

Wednesday, April 10th, 2002

I got home tonight and had a message from A. I called her back and she said I was to be the second to know besides, Scott. Charlie cut his first tooth today! I’m so glad she called to let me know.

I journaled Charlie’s first birthday.

Friday, September 20th, 2002
Charlie is one today! I thought I would be ok without seeing him today. His party is tomorrow.

I had a busy day as Noah had Special Olympics, but I couldn’t keep my mind off Charlie. A. called to check on me and I let her know that I thought I changed my mind that I wanted to see Charlie. We ended up all meeting at Don Pablo’s (the restaurant where I met them at.) K. was our waitress and she was so cool about it and kept coming over to check on me. It was nice to be around them tonight.

It was a very emotional day. I’m sure tomorrow will be emotional too. I’m mentally and physically exhausted.

Looking back on those entries, I’m so thankful that I have them and wrote them and thankful someone suggested it!


Other Things I’m Thankful For:
Open Adoption
A Pretty Normal and Uneventful Hospital Experience
Funny and Cute Things Charlie Says
Birthmom friends
Internet
Blogging