One year ago today...

My first morning wake-up as a mother went something like this:

(Setting: Addis Ababa, Ehtiopia - YEKA GUEST HOUSE)

The scene opens with me sleeping peacefully.

AIMEE: Dude. (pause) Vern. (pause) Diann. (pause...as I slowly stir.)

ME: (in annoyance, still not opening my eyes) What?!?

AIMEE: Dude, I think your kid has to pee.

ME: (Eyes flying open!) "I have a kid?!?"

I opened my eyes to see Bizunesh sitting on the edge of her bed looking at me expectantly. I got up and gently guided her the three feet to the bathroom. Thus began the routine of at least month of her asking to go or waiting until I asked her if she had to go to the bathroom.

I thought of this moment today as we were getting ready for the day. I yelled TIME CHECK as is the habit, while I am doing my hair and she runs into the living room and checks the time on her way to grab the breakfast I have laid out for her in the kitchen. "It's 7:25," she yells back. "Is today gym day?" "Can I wear flip flops to school, Mom?" "Do I have to wear a jacket." "Did you sign my spelling word study sheet?" "Am I going to soccer or dance tonight?" The questions just tumble out of the same sweet girl who one year ago today couldn't yet communicate with me and simply patiently waited for me to tell her it was OK to go to the bathroom.