This might be the hardest post for me to articulate. I don't really know how to sum up the impact this woman has had on me and my life, but I'll do my best.
Claire and I went to high school together. We were in drama together, we shared friends, a love of the arts. I wouldn't say we were best friends then (I was crazy jealous when she had to kiss my boyfriend in a play). A few years after high school, we reconnected (remember myspace? Yeah). And, lucky for me, I haven't let her go since.
We've both become wives and mothers, and we both keep one foot in the creative field. But I can honestly say that in my own daily life, when I am having a hard day, or when I think about what kind of mother or friend I aspire to be, I think of her. Her patience is unlimited. Her kindness is unrelenting. Her love for her family and her friends is overwhelming in the most humbling way. She was meant to be a mother, and last night she became a mother of two.
Claire and Johnny are beautiful, loving parents to Israel. (My favorite little model, and handsome dark-haired star). When they found out they were expecting again, they decided to keep this baby's name a secret. Friends guessed, moms interrogated, but they held out. Michael, Jackson, E.O.... all very viable options. I suppose I should explain the connection. When Johnny was little, and his mother was expecting her second son, she asked Johnny what they should name him.
'Michael Jackson', was his reply. Of course.
So Michael it was. (Johnny's brother, Mikey Pedroza) Well, Johnny and Claire's first son Israel has been obsessed with Captain E.O. since time began. even before Disneyland brought it back to the theater, Claire would let him watch it online, and the little guy would dance and sing just like the gloved one.
So, when baby #2 was on his way, they continued the family tradition and asked Izzy what they should name him.
'Captain E.O,' was his reply. Of course.
So yesterday, when I got the text that Claire was on her way to the hospital, I couldn't help but ponder this new child's name. To my surprise, when I arrived in the waiting room, Claire's sisters informed me that it was Michael Jackson's birthday. Of course it was. We should have guessed.
After hugs in the waiting room, and a few quick photos, I went in to see Claire. The woman defines strength. And Johnny was so supportive and gentle- caressing her hair, holding her hand. The epitome of the word partner.
Her first labor was quick, so we knew the new one would be arriving quickly. He didn't disappoint. After two and a half hours in the hospital, Xavier Leandro Pedroza made his entrance. With one hand by his face, and legs as strong as can be. His little boy voice filled the room, and we were all blessed.
Congratulations to Claire, Johnny, Israel, and your extended families. I will never forget what an honor it was to be a witness to this moment.
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