Family

Christopher and I have just returned from a visit to Toronto. We were there to visit with Michael's family...his sisters and their fabulous spouses and kid's as well as his parents.

Let me just say this, Michael has a really great family. I think that I am one of the few people who will openly and enthusiastically say that I love my in-laws.

Hilde, now known as "Oma" deserves saint status - She has taught me more about being patient with the little guy than I ever thought possible. Oma has the "magic" touch when it comes to babies. Like my father (grandpa), no matter what was going on with Christopher she simply cuddled, coo'd and rocked him until the gas pain passed or he decided that he'd said his piece and was done for the time being.

Michael has twin sisters - Mary & Susie. They both have 2 children, much older than Christopher. They are both wonderful with children; patient, supportive, understanding and I think most importantly, non-judgmental...just very even keeled or least this is the energy that I see when I'm with them.

I can only hope that I grow into this role in a similar fashion. I want to be patient and even keeled and supportive and non-judgemental and loving in a way that allows my son to become a whole person.