Monday, February 23, 2015 at 2:15pm our sweet girl Hope Lynn entered this world.
She was placed on my chest. She was more beautiful than I could've imagined.
With our first child I was in shock when she was born. Amazed that this real little human being came into our lives. This time was much more emotional. I think in some ways because I knew what was coming.
Both Aaron and I cried as little Hope lay there. Perfect and beautiful in every way. All I wanted to do was snuggle her for the longest time.
After spending time skin to skin and nursing it was time for big sister and little sister to meet.
This was a moment I had imagined many times. The reality was much more emotional than I could have planned. We knew we were giving something very wonderful to our oldest daughter: a life long friend; a sibling.
Mercy naturally fell in love with her baby sister. Noting how her ears and her hands were so tiny. She counted her toes and made sure there was ten. Then she asked to hold baby sister and gave her a kiss. My heart melted.
Big sister and baby sister then exchanged gifts with each other. Both felt very special.
Tuesday we came home and officially started our life as a family of four.
There's something that happens to your heart when you become a parent. I'm not sure I can fully explain it or do it justice. It's is something you can't really convey; you have to experience it yourself.
I want my girls to know how much they are loved and will be loved. I want them to know how deeply they are treasured. It would take me a great deal of time to pen all I feel so I'll let Bob do it...
May God bless and keep you always // May your wishes all come true // May you always do for others // And let others do for you // May you grow up to be righteous // May you grow up to be true // May you always know the truth // And see the lights surrounding you // May you always be courageous // Stand upright and be strong // May your heart always be joyful // And may your song always be sung //
May you stay forever young
The past few weeks have been wonderful. I can't express my gratitude enough to our family & friends who have taken care of us and loved on us in these early days with baby Hope.
A note to my wonderful, amazing, patient husband Aaron -
You have helped me become more of myself; more of who I aspire to be... I attribute many of my great moments in motherhood and parenting to you. You provide the encouragement and understanding that leads me to follow my instincts and my heart when it comes to our girls. Thank you.
Mercy & Hope,
May you always know you changed our lives and hearts forever when you came into our world. You are perfect and beautiful inside and out.
You are fearfully and wonderfully made. You were known to us and others as someone very special even before you were born. We pray you know real love and also know it's the greatest thing you can give and receive. We pray you create and be things of beauty in this world.
We love you two. xo.