A Bittersweet Day

Today is the 7th anniversay of the attacks that occured on September 11, 2001. It was the most horrific day imaginable, and I know how lucky I am to have been so close to ground zero and not have lost anyone.

I tried to write about my feelings today, but nothing seems right. Instead, I'm going to post an email sent from Mama Jo one year ago today. Abby and Emmy, surely by the time you're reading this you'll know how wonderful your Mama Jo is, but here's just another example:

From: Jo Dykes
Sent: Tuesday, September 11, 2007 9:37 AM
To: Erik Dykes; david; Jill Dykes
Subject: 9/11

To my children,

Six years ago, I, like the rest of the world sat glued to the tv, waiting for the latest news, watching tragedy unfold. As devastated as I was, there was a part of me that selfishly kept saying, "Are my kids ok?" "Dear God, please don't let anything happen to Erik and David and Jill." Throughout the day, half of me mourned for others and half was totally focused on you. Each time the phone rang, and you guys were wonderful about keeping me informed, I said a prayer of thanks.

I don't know if I ever told you that when I got home, I think everyone in Martinsville called to ask if you all were all right. I know it was their way of reaching out to New York, but it was very comforting none the less. Now, here we are.....six years later. I turned my little desk calendar today and there is a picture of a mother holding a baby and it says "Count your blessings." So not only am I counting my blessings, I am telling you that you ARE my blessings and I thank God for you every day.

Boys, you have each brightened and enriched my life since the day they first put your tiny bodies in my arms. Watching you turn into the wonderful men that you have become is awe inspiring. I love you both so much.

Jill, my love and admiration for you grows daily. I truly believe that you and David were pre-destined for one another and I am so grateful. You are everything I could ever want in a daughter and I am so thankful that Diane and John share you with me.

And finally, our precious Abby. What a joy! Who would ever have thought, six years ago, that 2007 would find you ALL living in Raleigh, our lives revolving around a tiny bundle of energy, and anxiously waiting for another little soul to love. How blessed we are. I love all of you so much and am so grateful for you, and that you include me in your lives. Today just seemed a good day to say so.

Mom (Jo, "mazjo" (the grandmother formerly known as Mama Jo )) :o)

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Like Mama Jo, I feel so grateful and blessed by my wonderful family. I'm so lucky to have such loving, helpful parents, in-laws, siblings, grandparents and of course my sweet girls and husband. I love you all!

PS -- Emerson, your name actually came out of 9/11. One day soon I'll write about the story of your name. I'm a bit too emotional today to do so.