Los Lunas Here I Come

So, for those of you who have known me for even just a second or two know that I am extremely close to my parents. Also, for those of you who have known me for even just a second or two know that I love to share a good story. So as you might imagine while the decision keep my pregnancy a secret from my parents until I could have face-to-face contact was an easy one, the execution proved to be much more difficult. Luckily, I did not have much of a wait. One week. However, it felt like an eternity. We talk on the phone constantly. What was I supposed to say when I had this great news bubbling inside of me? In fact, the day I got official confirmation from the doctor, October 20th, just so happened to be my parents 24th wedding anniversary. I couldn't think of a better gift to give them than the gift of a first grand baby. After all, I'm an only child. I am their only hope when it comes to grandparenthood.

As soon as Chad and I decided to expand our family I would spend much of my time thinking about how I would break the news to them. I wanted it to be perfect. It was almost like I was preparing for a proposal or something. I wanted to get it just right. I flew into Albuquerque extra early on the morning of October 24th. My parents excitedly picked me up at the airport, I was totally nervous and they didn't have a clue. It was breakfast time and we found ourselves driving to Einstein's Bagels. During the drive my dad said, as he often does, "I hope we get there soon. I'm about to starve to death." All I could think was, "Well, you're gonna have to wait a little longer."

Finally, we arrive. Initially I had thought about waiting until we got home to tell them. But I couldn't. I had already waited a week you really couldn't ask for more. So, as we get out of the car I say, "I know dad is starving, but I really want to give you guys your 'anniversary' card." So there we are in the parking lot of Einsteins Bagels and I hand them a card. It is absolutely precious. They pull the card out (my heart is racing) and it reads, "Sometimes the greatest joys..." Open. They are mesmerized. "Come in the tiniest packages. Congratulations" Then in my handwriting. "You are going to be GRANDPARENTS!!!"

The tears are flowing. It's the first time I've cried since the whole adventure began. They are overwhelmed and it played out exactly how I knew it would. Completely emotional, joyous and somewhat bittersweet since I am in Mesa and they are in Los Lunas. But I know distance won't matter when it comes to the relationships that will be built with this baby and mine and Chad's family--it's too special and too big.

The rest of the weekend was non-stop baby talk. I gave them all the updates, how we found out, how far along I was, baby items we are already secretly hoping for. My parents that weekend were attentive, sensitive and quick to take care of any need I had in order to keep the baby safe and sound. They have always been protective of me, but it was turned up a notch with safety hints all weekend long, "Don't text and walk; you might fall." "Drink juice for breakfast you need the vitamin C." "Don't let the dog jump all over you." "Be careful walking in those high hells." Their concern was adorable. I suddenly became the carrier of a very valued possession.

Their concern was only outdone by their need to spread the good news. My mom literally walked me to the neighbors to tell them proudly that she was going to be a grandma. It didn't matter how many people they told, each time there was a lump in their throat and a gleam in their eye. I thought, perhaps, an airplane might be rented and written across the Los Lunas sky would be, "The Chavez's Grandparents-To-Be and dang proud of it!" And I couldn't blame them, I really couldn't. My entire life I have received more love, attention, care, and guidance than anyone has the right to, I shouldn't expect an ounce less for my child.