Stanley.

Back in January, when the snow was fresh, and we were knee deep in our favorite season (hockey), Frank and I made a bet at the New Years Eve game we attended in the United Center.  Amongst a gaggle of friends, we quietly talked while waiting out the 2nd intermission of our beloved Blackhawks about the prospects of a new life inside my womb in the coming year.  Approaching the year mark of our son's early birth, we reflected on the hurt that was 2009, and the promise of 2010.  We counted the blessings we did happen to receive in 2009, but couldn't wait to dive head first into 2010.  Assured that this would be the year to top all years, Frank ordered two more beers, and we toasted.

"To 2010, OUR year."

Immediately after our private toast, and a nice long sip of our fresh cold beer, I turned to my adoring husband and gave him some what ifs.  Because, sometimes it's fun to play the what if game, especially when you have been drinking.

"What if the Hawks win the Stanley Cup this year?"

"What if we actually have a living child this year?"

No reason to go further on the what if game.  Those two things in the same year would make it an extraordinary one.  His response?

"Well, then his middle name should be Stanley."

Looks like we have a Stanley, folks!

Our boys won the cup last Wednesday!  And, although I'm not due until January 2011, we still like the idea of the tradition of Lord Stanley's Cup.  Especially since it hasn't been in our city for 49 years.