Marcela’s due date was January 10th, tomorrow. It was becoming more evident that I just wasn’t going to make it back to Augusta in time for the birth, especially not knowing when she would go into labor. Until one day in early December…

Marcela had a routine doctor’s appointment at which they decided to induce her early. She called me after that appointment in a panic and some tears…”December 29th! I’m not ready!” was what I heard on the other end of the line. I tried to calm her down and I was secretly doing a happy dance. Instantly, the wheels started turning and I made a few calls to my mother, Rachael, Charley, and a quick email to Shane – Marcela’s husband. After I worked the big things out, like who would watch my children (thanks, mom!) I emailed Shane with our “Operation Be There For Marcela” plan. Originally, Rachael wanted to try to fly in and our plan was for me to pick her up at the airport the night before the induction, then we’d show up on Marcela’s doorstep as a surprise. Unfortunately, due to ridiculous airfare prices, Rachael couldn’t be there in body, but she was there via Face Time!!! Hooray for Face Time!

As I got closer to Marcela’s street, Rachael called Marcela to try to be on the phone with her when I walked in. Then she called me and said that Marcela wouldn’t answer her phone, just texted her saying she was packing and couldn’t talk right now. Nonsense! I told Rachael to keep trying, I was almost there. I let Shane know that I was just down the street, and he opened the door for me. Rachael had succeeded in getting Marcela to answer the phone. I quietly walked to the back room with Shane behind me and spotted Marcela sitting in a chair Face Timing with Rachael. I just stood there in the doorway and she glanced up, mouth hanging open, and said, “WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE?” and then burst into tears! I heard Rachael say, “Yaaay!” Shane laughed, and I said, “Surprise!” The look on her face and to be there for my friend having her last baby was worth every mile of that drive!

Thank you to all involved, you helped make this special day even better! So, enough with my chatter…

Marcela, I love you, friend! And welcome, sweet Katherine. Love, your Honorary Auntie! 🙂

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