This is 38

What a difference a year makes. Exactly one year ago today, I had checked into the hospital and was getting ready to give birth to our sweet Eliza. It was also my first day of maternity leave and my 37th birthday. Today I have an almost one-year-old and am 38. 

We went to Oak Cliff this afternoon for my birthday dinner. I specifically requested a Mexican restaurant that my mom and I frequented, one that I haven’t been to in almost two and a half years. As we drive through my old neighborhood, I was struck by how much has changed. Even the restaurant we went to has changed locations. It’s just across the street from where it used to be, but it’s bigger and brighter. It was nice to eat one of my comfort meals with my husband and daughter and the food was exactly as delicious as I remembered it was. 

As we drive back home, I was suddenly struck with a wave of sadness. I wish Mom was here to see how my life has changed and my beautiful little family. I especially wish that she could meet and hold Eliza, who turns one tomorrow. I wish she could have watched me as I graduated from Hebrew Union College with my Masters in Jewish education last week in New York. During the ceremony, after I had walked across the stage, I cried as it hit me that she wasn’t there. But Stephen and Eliza were there, cheering me on, and my classmates supported me as I cried, reminding me how proud my mom would have been. 

Here’s to another year full of adventure!