Mother and son - yes and no. In some ways, I feel strongly like his mother - in my heart I am. I should say, I feel like one of his mothers. Never do I forget that he has another mother as well. In other respects, it seems more as though I am a fraud, not really his mother, just pretending.

I signed papers saying that I was giving up the right to be his mother. I never did all those traditional mom acts - watching his first step, changing diapers, etc. I am proud of him as a mother is though, and happy to be with him.

As I watched my handsome, lanky son step out of the van and head towards me, I noticed that he had a happy wide grin plastered on his face much like mine. Appreciating the moment, I wondered if I would ever lose this sense of wonderment and joy to see his sparkling blue eyes and that beautiful wide smile - a smile that I only saw for the first time five years ago.

I eagerly walked towards him and went right into his arms for a quick, warm bear hug. After being deprived of his touch for so many years, I now relish it and always long for our hugs to last longer. It's a reunited birth mom deal; most birth moms I know feel similarly. We know we can't make up for all those years apart, but, wish that we could try.

I climbed up into his mammoth van, and we headed to the marina for lunch. Californians can eat outside all year long, but, in Seattle the time for outdoor dining is limited. Like me, if my son has a chance to be outdoors, he usually grabs it. We arrived at the restaurant and sat outside on a deck under an umbrella. In the background were boats, lots of water and ducking bobbing on the surface of the water.

From the first time we spoke on the phone, our chats have been natural and easy. Mostly we are in sync and comfortable together. We are much alike with many of the same interests, likes and dislikes. Both of us are very laid back and easy going. We have both high energy and are spirited and lively though as well.

It is still a tad funny too though - us being together. We are mother and son, but not entirely. I can't really describe it exactly. The first time we were together, Chris joked about wondering if people could tell that we are related. We have since decided that they probably can. My first trip to Seattle we ran into some of his friends, and they definitely thought we looked related.

To Be Continued.......................................