Four days ago Japan was hit by an 8.9 magnitude earthquake, followed by a massive tsunami that devastated entire towns, killing thousands of people, leaving even more homeless. I've been watching the news, looking at pictures and videos from blogs online and reading articles from CNN off my phone. There's been hundreds of aftershocks that have caused explosions at Fukushima's power plant, leading to elevated radiation levels, thrusting Japan into nuclear crisis. The weight of my heart increases, as I watch the worst turn worse. Yet, even with the horrific images now embedded in my head, I can't come close to imaging what it would be like to actually be there. The lack of life, even in the land, what once was, washed away and now only memories. The people still stranded without food, water or proper means of shelter. I've taken these days to reflect on life and what it means...what you mean...and how quickly everything can change. I don't have all the answers, but I am soberly aware that everything can be wiped from your life in a flash, and for that, I'm extremely humbled and incredibly grateful that I have you, this new life growing inside of me, being blessed with the opportunity to be your mother...Ethan and Juliana's mother...to be alive and to have today, because today is all we ever have. I love you, Mommy