Present-
Janet thought back on that time and a tear fell from her eyes. Even though it was 16 years ago that they lost their daughter it seemed like just yesterday. Janet could still remember that day like it was today. She remembers every thought and feeling. Every sound and smell was forever locked in her memory. Every year on her birthday Janet allowed herself time to cry. She would find a private place to cry and the tears would fall. Their marriage had almost died along with their little girl. It took them years to get over loosing her. It was almost 4 years before they had another child.
12 years ago-
Janet had just found out she was pregnant again. This time she was filled with apprehension. After what happened the last time she was pregnant she was terrified. She was sad when she found out about this baby. She loved Jack Jr., and she didn't want him to be an only child. She was terrified of what might happen. Jack had finally told her something that would stick with her forever.
He told her that nothing is accomplished by holding back. That you must live life and not be afraid to take chances, it is okay to be scared. You wouldn't be human if you weren't scared every once in awhile. He told her that he loved her enough to be strong enough for the both of them.
Then he kissed her on the nose and smiled and told her that he loved her so very much, and said "Thank you for loving me pumpkin."
She smiled at his pet name for her. He had taken to calling her pumpkin before they were married and it stuck. Now every time she was nervous or scared he would call her that and she smiled every time.
11 years ago-
Janet had just given birth to their second son. Little Jason was a little spit fire. He came out kicking and screaming and everyone knew he was there from the moment he was born. He was the loudest baby in the nursery. Jack teased Janet that he was just like her. Jack knew that Jason was going to give him a run for his money.
Present-
Janet smiled as she looked at Jason now. He was the spitting image of Janet. He was taller, but other than that he was like her in every way. Jack was correct when he said that Jason was going to give him a run for his money. Their son seemed to thrive on seeing how far he could push his parents. It seemed as though every button there was he knew how to push it. He had Janet's temper and her zest for life. He lived life to the fullest and never let any challenge stand in his way.
10 years ago-
Jack had just opened his second restaurant. It meant long hours and sometimes time spent away from his family. If he could make a go of this, it would me he had finally arrived. Janet was behind him all the way. She told him that if he wanted this, then it was what she wanted. They decided that Janet would stay home with the boys. She loved being a full time mom. That meant more time with Jack when he was home. She also met him for lunch at the restaurant. He loved it when they came for lunch or dinner. He pulled up a high chair for Jason and Jack Jr. sat next to him. They made the perfect family.
Present-
Janet smiled when she remembered those days. Jack Jr. loved to follow his dad around in the kitchen. He would always ask about how to cook the different dishes. Janet swore that he knew more about cooking by the age of 9 than she did by the age of 30. Now at 19, he had announced that he wanted to be a chef like his dad. Janet smiled when she remembered how proud Jack was the night that Jack Jr. told them his plans.