Becoming a Mom of Two Boys
Stephen and me in 2017 at my nephew’s wedding
I had this dream of having two children born close in age so when they got older, each one could ride on the back of our motorcycles. Then as they grew older, we would go on family rides. One unit on our own wheels.
When Nick was 15 months old, I was pregnant. On February 19, my siblings and our families gathered at my parents’ house to celebrate my dad’s 57th birthday. We signed his card: Love, Janine, Lucas, Nicholas, and Baby.
“What?!” My dad exclaimed.
This little miracle would be grandchild #8.
This baby wasn’t ready to come out on his due date of October 18 and I hoped he’d have his own special day. My 31st birthday passed and then on the morning of October 21, contractions came on strong. Thinking it would be like the last time, Luke showered and took his time driving us to Albany Medical Center.
Nick thrilled to hold his baby brother
The baby felt low, and I knew he was going to come fast. As Luke wheeled me into the ER, the receptionist stopped to ask him for our insurance card. Luke said that I was going to deliver this baby right here. They rushed me through.
The nurses barely got me on the table and, without any IV or even changing into a gown, Stephen Peter Cammarata launched into the world. As I held him, his squinty eyes stared up at me like he was making me an offer I couldn’t refuse.
It was the offer to forever be this beautiful baby’s momma. To do my best by him. To love him unconditionally. To show by example that kindness, love, compassion, and laughter make the world a better place.
2-year-old Nick arrived to meet his brother. Talking a mile a minute, this much we understood.
“Baby?” and he held out his hands to hold his little brother. From that moment, Nick forever looked over his baby brother, and he hasn’t stopped.
Stephen with his uncle
Brothers
Yet when I think about what Stephen has accomplished, when I see his compassion in action, his integrity, and undeniable loyalty, I see a young man creating his own path, being true to his heart, and living a beautiful life.
Stephen with his dad and girlfriend, Ashley!