I Liked My Life

by Abby Fabiaschi

Looking back, I think he was getting at how women execute an entire life plan whereas men mostly consider their next meal.

Keeping a distinguishable life of my own was my great life struggle.

When it comes back around to me, I pause, thinking of all the things I wish I’d said to my mom when I had the chance. I don’t want to keep living a life where I pass.

“Nothing cures a chip on the shoulder like giving back goodness.”

house. I don’t remember my dad being there, although I’m sure he was, but my mom is in every birthday memory I have. Taking pictures, cooking, cleaning, doing my hair, carrying presents, making gift lists for thank-you notes, picking up wrapping paper, finding batteries, driving kids home, ordering cakes, lighting candles, singing

“When the world gives you a hard time, pick up a book and join another.”

She referred to the library, any library, as a sanctuary. She made a point of visiting them when we were on vacation, as though they were a common tourist attraction.

When I was little she took me to story time every week. “Isn’t it amazing? All these books are at our disposal. Anyone can come in here and borrow them for free. It’s the coolest thing the government has ever done, bar none.” After story time, we’d pick new books for the week. My mom always approached the librarian for recommendations. She’d stand in line if she had to. Librarians carried celebrity status in her mind. “There’s not

enough time to read everything written,” she’d whisper as we waited, “so it’s important to be discerning.”

I’d found true love with Brady, but when Eve arrived I discovered love has tiers and motherhood is the pinnacle.