Erin and Caitlin and I counseled together and though Montica wasn’t employed by AAPHC, her Heritage desk was right in the same office with us. The 4 of us worked hard and played harder. I wish I knew at the time how much i should be cherishing such a work environment. In many ways I feel like Erin, Caitlin and Montica knew Anna better than anyone because they were with her all day long 5 days a week. Our loss was their loss, and losing her affected them each so deeply. Erin came back into town for my baby shower for “in-utero” John John and for his birth. Of course when I saw her on her wedding day I couldn’t help but to cry for the deep deep place for which she is tucked in my heart and Caitlin too.

Montica and I drove 5 hours from Charleston, went to the wedding and reception and turned around and drove 5 more hours home putting us back at nearly 3:00 am. Montica drove the whole way as I hopped back and forth from the front and back seat to comfort Ben who was teething and tagged along.

At about 1:00 am, Ben was screaming in hunger and Montica pulled off at the nearest exit and pulled into the only spot with a light…a car dealership. As I sat in the backseat and nursed Ben with my dress pratically on the floor, a friendly cop pulled up to do his job and to check out “the situation.” I quickly tried to robe myself. I thought Montica would discreetly say something like, “We’re okay officer. My friend’s baby was crying and we pulled off to console him.” She decided on a more direct approach and told the cop we had a “breast feeding emergency.” He apologized profusely, (as if he’d done something wrong) and practically peeled out of the parking lot in embarassment.” I’m sure that made for a great story at the donut shop the next morning:)

Erin, We love you and are so happy and excited for the adventure you are embarking upon. Cait, it was wonderful to see you too.