Unexpected Gifts

Dear Junior,

So... turns out that doctor was wrong... you didn't come this weekend!  I am thankful that you weren't a Halloween baby, and I'm thankful that you weren't born on marathon Sunday, because traffic would have been tough.  And now you are more than one day late.  I think you should aim to come out either on your daddy's birthday or before.  Any later, and I might start handing out eviction notices because sleeping is getting to be a real chore.  :)

Over the last few days, your grandma has been in town to visit.  She'd been hoping to meet you, but she leaves tomorrow and you still have not made any indications that you're coming out.  Secretly, I think we are all thankful:  by staying put, you have given us extra time together with my mom--and I actually think that was more important than her meeting you at this time.  God knows best, and I think your inertia has given us some very good, unexpected gifts.

In the last few days, we've been able to show your grandma what our life is like here in New York/New Jersey... the amazing church community and family you're being born into, and all the loving aunties and uncles who are excited for your imminent arrival... the bright, airy, and comforting home that your parents have been blessed with (and that they've gotten to get ready in the post-bedbug era)... the conveniences of Hmart, Costco, and A&P across the street (not to mention the joys of Mitsuwa just four miles down)... and she also got to experience our rich and beautiful life in Brooklyn yesterday with our all-day tour, including dim sum in Brooklyn Chinatown, Bien Cuit, the butcher shop, Sahadi's, the Korean grocery store, a visit with my judge, Jack the Horse, and wonderful visits with our old neighbors -- Wes and Diane, and Calvin, Lisette, Elijah and Zuri.

She leaves tomorrow.  Who knows when you will come out. But thanks for staying put for a bit -- this has been good for all of us.  You'll meet your grandma soon enough; we all needed this.