Martha Ensign Johnson, my amazing mom

Oh my!  How did I forget the first grandparent to meet miss Ella Mae?  She came almost a month before Ella Mae was born for my graduation from graduate school.  She then stayed for my early contractions, which lasted over two weeks–who would have thought that Ella Mae would take so long?  Our daily five-mile walks, gardening, and general mischief kept me in good health as we waited!  I am lucky to consider my mom one of my closest friends.

Mom and I a week before Ella Mae came- walking Como park

Having a child helped me realize how precious I am to my own parents.  They held me the same way I held Ella Mae for the first time- in complete awe.  My mom felt *this* close to me when I was born!  I am extremely grateful to have had my own mom, Martha Johnson (“grandmartha” to her grand-kids!) there for the birth and beginnings.  She was so soft and sensitive, a great team-mate to Jeff in the delivery, and fell completely in love with our little Ella Mae.  Plus, Ella’s middle name is for her grandma- Martha!

So mom- thank you for spending a month with us.  For making amazing meals and spending time with me (“Scottish!”), keeping me sane, and taking care of us as a young couple as we transformed into a young family!  We love you!

Hours after Ella Mae was born, Grandmartha holding her close in the delivery room

Grandmartha and Ella Mae the day she came home (June 15, 2013)