Agonotheta

Isabel Winter

June 28, 2004

Congratulations to two of my best friends, John and Kristin, on the birth of their first child, Isabel Winter. Labor began Saturday morning at 6 am. Twenty-five laborious hours later, and several uncomfortable sleeping positions in the waiting room for "yours truly" and half a dozen other close friends, out popped all 7 pounds, 14 ounces and 21 inches of beautiful baby girl.

I've known the mother since she was eight years old (16 years) and the father since I was fourteen (11 years). Five years ago, I had the honor of serving as John's Best Man in his and Kristin's wedding. Sunday, this bachelor held their firstborn in his clumsy arms and wept like a baby, as it were.

I'm amazed at their preparedness for parenthood. Knowing two people for the majority of their lives, since they themselves were children, and watching them become parents right before your eyes can be quite a humbling and mind-boggling experience.

John and Kristin, I'll be there for anything you or your beautiful daughter needs. I love you guys . . . all three of you.