Charlotte Ostermann

Lawrence Journal-World

February 13, 2002

 

On Valentine's Day we recall old love stories and do the romantic, silly, wonderful things for our loved ones that make new memories.  My favorite Valentine's Day was the one I spent curled up around my newborn son Michael.  If you've never fallen in love with a baby, I wish you this precious experience!  I had begun to love him the instant I knew he existed.  I could almost feel his heart beating deep beneath my own.   By the time I could play with his feet, rub his back, and feel the knuckles of his tiny, clenched fist, I loved him with a passion. I had sung to him, prayed for him, treasured him for months before taking him home in my arms.  I felt such tremendous longing to see and know him that I was impatient for his birth.  When he finally came - the finest Valentine's Day gift ever from me and my husband to each other - my joy knew no bounds.  I hope everyone who is given the gift of a child will give him, in turn, the gift of life.  May you have joy like mine in the exchange!