In the fall of 2006, when I was in my second trimester of carrying Biddle, we were in Carmel having lunch at The Forge in the Forest, and I was in the restroom. During those three middle months of pregnancy I was often more ridiculously happy than I had ever been before and I always had to pee. I was standing at the sink trying to wash my hands without getting my purse wet, when I had a flash of certainty and I knew what Biddle's middle name was going to be.
It was simple. Three easy letters, so it wouldn't overburden her already 10-letter-long first name.
Joy.
Evangeline Joy.
"Joy" was not a word that I tossed around often or casually. In fact, like most people, I had it reserved for big, profound happinesses -- like a wedding day or the birth of a child or the salvation of a soul. But the experiences of motherhood have brought me to discover that smaller, simpler bits of joy exists all around us everyday.
A voice says: "See?"
And I find myself holding a camera...
Click.
Click.
Click.
Click.
I have crooked teeth, which is why I don't smile big. I am quiet by nature, because I live a lot of life inside my head. If you're talking to me and it appears that I'm not talking to you, it's probably because I'm thinking up the witty way in which I'm going to narrate my encounter with you. Which is why you need to keep reading this blog. I'm a writer at heart, so maybe that's why I had to have something written on me. Most of the clothes I wear out in public will cover this tattoo. (No, my mother hasn't seen it.) Still, it's an indelible reminder to me and a secret message to you: "the movement you need is on your shoulder".
Click.
Precious. Great photos.
Posted by: Amy | 2008.07.08 at 09:05 AM
I thought of your tattoo when the pastor at church spoke on joy this last sunday. I thought I might need one of them for myself - hope you don't mind if I someday copy you!
Posted by: Denise | 2008.07.08 at 06:02 PM
Amy -- thanks!
Denise -- thanks for reading and for entertaining the notion... let me know when you get your tatt! I've never started a "trend" before. :o)
Posted by: Jill | 2008.07.09 at 12:34 AM
how can you do that, jill? tears in my eyes reading your words!
what a beautiful story and evie will be thrilled to have it. it will be the story she asks for over and over.
Posted by: natalie | 2008.07.09 at 07:40 AM
thanks natalie...and hugs to you.
i admit, though, i hope Evie waits until she is at least 30 before she gets a tattoo (if she really wants one!)
Posted by: Jill | 2008.07.09 at 10:13 AM