In short, having a child isn't a prerequisite to being a caring, loving, maternal person.

Very true, and I plan on being the best adopted Aunt ever as well as good friend.

I hope you've told her, or will someday.

Oh yes. She and I regularly exchange long, schmoopy cards and letters telling each other how grateful we are to have the relationship that we do. We also spend a lot of time just hanging out and chatting. She's one of my best friends in the world. I think some of that comes from being an only child and from the fact she and Dad divorced in '93 and she's never remarried or been even in a serious relationship since. (I'm pretty sure that "fierce independence" is embedded on the X chromosome I inherited from her.) She rocks.

Man, that schmoopy tag just won't close.

Kristin, want some quality one on one Emeline while you're here??

That's some good schmoop.

-t!! Iwas just thinking about you. How are you?

-t, good to see you. Hope you are doing okay!

Kristin, your mom rocks. What a great way to start the day.

I like the Mom schmoop. Before my mom got crazy, she was totally kick ass like that. That's what I remember best.

My mom was like that, too. Probably why I try to be a cool mom for my daughter. She doesn't always think so, but since all her friends tell her I am, I will go with their unbiased opinions.

I'm doing pretty well. I had to go to the ER over the weekend, which was no fun, but that seems to be all taken care of and, oddly, kind of helped me get my emotions all sorted out. Pain is helpful like that sometimes, I guess. Anyway, I'm good.

Though right now I miss my mom, who is also good with the random sweet gesture, but unfortunately too far away to bring me breakfast.

{{{-t}}} I've been thinking about you.

And {{{Kristin}}} just because you're huggable.