Showers of Blessings

Published: www.yash.ca
On: November 19, 2008
At: Toronto, Canada

There will be many memorable moments from my first pregnancy - moments that I will smile and laugh for years. Always looking for ways to surprise people on their birthdays and anniversaries, I was truly surprised on my baby shower.

It all began when a friend of mine, Nivi emailed another friend, Shabnam (and copied me) saying "we are all coming to your new house one of these Saturdays." I instantly jumped in with a commitment of being there in their new home on the next Saturday (July 7, 2007). My husband glared at me and stated authoritatively, "we will be there only for a while, and will refuse for dinner." I was disappointed, but I wasn't in the mood to argue with him. I was excited at the thought of going to my friend's new home.

With my due date nearing, my hormones were playing havoc within me. I was getting more and more upset. Day by day I awaited my son's arrival. I was counting every moment.

A summer day, Saturday came in as usual. My mother insisted on me wearing something fancy. I yelled back saying, "we are not going to a big party. It's just us!" I was getting annoyed at their stubbornness. Finally after much insistence I wore a colourful Indian dress - kurti (short top) with a long skirt. We finally left home, and reached Shabnam and Hardeep's home at approximately 7 pm. Santosh guided me towards the backyard. While I was still questioning why were we going through the backyard, I pushed the strong wooden door, and entered in.

I gasped when I saw all my friends lined up together to sing a cheerful SURPRISE! I was so touched and happy. The beautiful decorations, assortment of food, games, noisy chatter, and above all the melodious sound of everyone laughing and smiling will remain etched in my heart forever. I was absolutely overwhelmed seeing my loved ones spending hours in planning, preparing with excitement, cooking and decorating the home to make me feel special. Though I heard it all my life, that day I experienced that the littlest things can make a big difference.

As I sit at my desk today typing this blog, I smile and think, what a privilege motherhood is. The emotions, the closeness, the new beginnings, and importantly, always surrounded by loved ones is a blessing, and how very lucky I am.