So off we went, just one kid in tow, Grandma Kate, Papaw, Jason and myself. Chocolate Chip pancakes were all I could think about, interrupted occasionally by a slow moving pain. We enjoyed the breakfast and talked about what Ella would do without her momma and daddy. Would she notice our absence? How would things be different when we returned?
The rest of the day things gradually progressed. Sometime later in the evening we felt "it was time". And so, off we went. We were given a posh room, complete with a flat screen TV for viewing whenever things were quiet (whaaaat?). And we waited. And waited. And waited. I even got to rest for a few hours, as did Jason. When I awoke I knew there wasn't much time left. The doctor knew, as well.
He stayed in the room with us for the next hour and a half. Sitting in the back and only occasionally speaking up to say, "You're doing great, Erin." Jason was amazing. The nurses were great. I was just hopeful it wouldn't last too much longer. And then, just as the doctor began to prepare for her arrival, she came without warning. No pushing. Just one minute "I think it's time" and the next "Here she is!!!"
She was absolutely cute as a button. I fell in love instantly with her squishy little nose and boisterously tiny cry. She. Was. Perfect. She wasn't happy unless she was in my arms. We had had a connection for the last nine months. She needed that comfort, that security of me. She wouldn't even fall asleep that night until she was snuggled right up next to me.
In the last five years, she has changed our lives in ways we couldn't have dreamed of. She teaches us how to smile at the little things, challenges us to give without restraint, instructs us in showing mercy and compassion, and gives us a chance to discover life all over again as though we're seeing it for the first time.
Sweet, Sweet Hannah,
You are among the world's most beautiful souls. I am often in awe of the fact that God entrusted me in the raising of you. It seems, at times, I am learning more from you than you from me. How precious are those lessons you have given me without your ever knowing!
As I learn more and more of you, there are so many things to love. I love how you, 6 days out of 7, come downstairs in the morning adorned with rings and bracelets, still in your jammies (hey, gotta look good for breakfast). I love how you can't get enough of your baby brother; the whole world ceases when he's around. I love how you just recently have begun to stand on your head more than your feet. I love to hear you sound out words... chunk by chunk and then look to me for approval. I love to watch you color so beautifully. I love to hear you sing when you think no one is listening, and I agree with you that Jesus put a song in your heart. I love to have you snuggle with me and it melts my heart when you say, "I need you." I love it that you can't seem to remember where the laundry room is, we've only lived here for three years. I love it that you love your siblings and are friends with each of them. I love to see your eyes light up when your daddy is around... I pray you will marry someone like him.
How could we have imagined anyone more perfect for our family? All five of us are blessed beyond words for your place in our lives. In five short years you have influenced us in ways we never imagined. I can only imagine how God is going to use you to influence your world in the years to come. Sweet Hannah, Happy 5th Birthday. I love you "a million and one".
Mommy
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