Abby's Birthday

Thirty years ago this morning, it was snowing just like it is right now.. Jim had parked his truck at the top of our hill of a driveway, because we kind of knew we'd be going to the hospital. At 7:00 am, we packed Jamey and Tyler into the truck, dropped them off at Grama Bagley's and went on to St Mark's Hospital. I think around 11:48 that same morning we got our first girl. I remember the doctor saying it was a girl and Jim started to cry and I cried and said over and over "I've got my little girl" !!!! We were so excited. I was into sewing back then and had sewn all of her little sleeper nightgowns. How fun to have a girl to add to the two boys. I had always loved the name Abigail...I think from reading the book "Those Who Love" about Abigail and John Adams..in the book Abigail was very strong and had a great many opinions that she made sure she was heard. Abby comes from "A Lantern in her Hand" Another book I had read that Grama Lundgren gave me. That Abby also reminded me of another strong woman, who met things head on and never gave up...but was kind and loved her family more than anything in the world. Well...our Abby has lived up to both of those admirable women. She is very smart, she has always known what she wanted. She always gets what she wants. She has grown into the most amazing woman. At 19 she started working for ACS. She worked in Philadelphia and was the boss of about 20 people. They were a hard crowd. I know Abby was stressed about the job, but she learned quickly and she didn't let anyone run over her. She bossed people around in San Antonio after that, then ACS decided they needed someone bossy in SLC, so they brought her home. Not too long after that she decided it was time for Mike Latimer to get married. It took a little bossing, again, something Abby is very good at, but off they went to Hawaii and have been married 6 years. She has turned her house into a beautiful home, where you feel welcome as soon as you walk in the door..She got the bug about quilting a few years ago and of course, she is now a master quilter. She wanted a bigger room for her quilting machine and fabric and sewing machine, so they just finished their basement...She, of course, has the dreamroom for any quilter. Abby reminds me a lot of many people...my dad..you know that old way of seeing something and then going after it! The two Abigail's, their loyalty, love of family, generosity, & strength. She looks like her Aunt Kathy, who also has a lot of these qualities, and I know that both Grama Bagley and Grama DeSpain and all the great grama's that quilted before her would be amazed and thrilled. I sometimes picture all of those women sitting around a big quilt. Quilting the old fashioned way (by hand) enjoying one another's company. It is a pretty picture. So, Abby, Happy Birthday!!! Keep laughing and yelling and doing all the things you love to do. I am amazed by you and so very greatful that 30 years ago this morning you came into my life. Love, MOM