On this day 23 years ago, my wife and I were checking her into the hospital at 6:30 am for preparations to induce birth labor.
I remember family members keeping me company in the waiting room.
I remember my best friend, Dennis, playing backgammon with me to keep my mind occupied.
I remember old women in the waiting room, remarking "Look at him!. A father-to-be, and he's playing backgammon!"
I remember the nurse repeatedly coming out and saying, "Mr. Hand, your wife is calling for you in Labor."
I remember going into Labor, for just a few minutes, before being told "Get the Hell out!"
(intense labor pains )
I remember going into delivery to be with Sherry as she gave birth.
I remember the doctor saying, "What did we decide it was going to be, Sherry?"
And Sherry couldn't remember.
And the doctor said "A GIRL!", and plopped Summer on her mother's stomach.
I remember going out and telling all in the waiting room.
I remember leaving and going to grab a bite at McDonald's (It was close. Like right there. Only reason.)
I remember being asked how I was doing, in an off-the-hand, something to say, manner by the worker.
"How am I doing? Weeelll, let me just tell you!"
And I did, and the packed McD's applauded and cheered.
Twenty-three years ago, my daughter was given to me by God.
Summer, I love you. Happy birthday, darling daughter.
I remember family members keeping me company in the waiting room.
I remember my best friend, Dennis, playing backgammon with me to keep my mind occupied.
I remember old women in the waiting room, remarking "Look at him!. A father-to-be, and he's playing backgammon!"
I remember the nurse repeatedly coming out and saying, "Mr. Hand, your wife is calling for you in Labor."
I remember going into Labor, for just a few minutes, before being told "Get the Hell out!"
(intense labor pains )
I remember going into delivery to be with Sherry as she gave birth.
I remember the doctor saying, "What did we decide it was going to be, Sherry?"
And Sherry couldn't remember.
And the doctor said "A GIRL!", and plopped Summer on her mother's stomach.
I remember going out and telling all in the waiting room.
I remember leaving and going to grab a bite at McDonald's (It was close. Like right there. Only reason.)
I remember being asked how I was doing, in an off-the-hand, something to say, manner by the worker.
"How am I doing? Weeelll, let me just tell you!"
And I did, and the packed McD's applauded and cheered.
Twenty-three years ago, my daughter was given to me by God.
Summer, I love you. Happy birthday, darling daughter.
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