Hal's Birthday

Dear Hal,

Before dawn on the day you were born, I was awake and standing at my bedroom window watching the light cast by the lunar eclipse. It was also the winter solstice. Little did I know that your daddy would be phoning later in the day to tell me it was time for you to come. Your mommy and daddy were already at the hospital. I immediately called Grandpa and asked him to hustle home. We would soon be driving to New York. I didn't even have to pack my suitcase. I was so excited to welcome you that I had been ready for weeks. First I checked with Uncle Steve and Aunt Jean to find out if we could stay with them. With their usual open arms, they insisted that we visit.

Tuesday, December 21st was gorgeously sunny with bright blue skies. The sun had already set when Grandpa and I arrived at NYU Medical Center at 6:30 p.m. You came into the world at 6:57 p.m. You weighed 7 pounds, 10 ounces and were 22 inches long. Your daddy was thrilled to come into the waiting room and tell Grandpa and me about you. We went into the recovery room to see you and your mommy. Your mommy was a little tired but still her beautiful self. She was cuddling you, skin to skin. Your daddy was rubbing your head and your soft cheeks. He told us your name, Hal Akiva, a great name for a wonderful boy. You had lots of dark brown hair. Your deep blue eyes were wide open as you looked around, taking in your new world. How alert you were. I cannot wait to hug you again.

My love always,
Grandma