Alright, so lately I've been on a 50s Mermaids binge and after writing a post about an interaction between Gracie and Julia in the early 80s, I was inspired to do a series of letters between mother and daughter, specifically Annette and Gracie Watsford.
Dear Annie,
At the moment, your daddy fell asleep holding you. I'm just about ready to wake him up and demand you back, but he's sleeping so peacefully, and yet his body posture is alert and fully aware you are still in his arms.
(I guess all those 9 months of badgering the other wives to let him hold their babes is finally paying off!)
On that note, I'm so happy you're finally here! Wait a minute! Let me be formal!
Eh hem (clearing my throat): Annette Sharon Watsford, you were born on November 25th, 1965. My water broke on the 24th, during a brunch I was having with some of my lady friends on the base, where I was soon rushed to Royal Darwin Hospital. It took you 20 hours worth of labor to deliver you until you were born with the loudest set of lungs I had ever heard! Born 10lbs, 20 inches tall, with a melon-like head that was 22 inches, you made it alarmingly clear that you were NOT happy to leave my womb!
And I am ashamed to say your father almost lost his hand supporting me as you came out. Your father was a panicking mess and came running into the hospital room as soon as he got word I was at the hospital! I found his messy attire to scramble as fast as he could hilarious!
I called my parents (your grandma and grandpa) over the phone to tell them you arrived, though you did the same yourself when you took a break from nursing to say "Hello!".
If I was honest, I was really scared through this pregnancy. You are my first, and hopefully my last if all the shouting I did to your father got through his skull! But I was excited for your arrival as you grew within me. From the slightest flutter of movement to the strongest kicks that sent me feeling over and made me wonder if you were training to be an Olympic swimmer! There were moments when I would just talk to you and I'd be convinced you were listening. Your father made it into a contest until she gave swift kicks to indicate you were annoyed (his words, never mine!) Each day felt like a long wait, but a worthy one as I waited rather impatiently for the day of your arrival.
At the moment, your dozing in Walt's (your father's) arms, though you make a sound here and there indicating you might be awaking before you doe back into the clouds.
Speaking of clouds, perhaps I shall tell you the story of how I met your father. I believe it would be one you'd beg me to repeat over and over again until you get sick of it (and perhaps you will or you won't). Time shall tell.
Oh! I believe I shall end this here. A nurse has arrived and is currently trying to pry you from your father's grasp, and neither of you wants that!
So, tata for now. I'll hopefully write again soon, as I must convince you to let the kind nurse check you over and convince your father not to be such a worrywart!
Your Dearest (and tired) Mama,
Gracie