A comparison.

Yesterday Lillian wore one of Adelynn's old dresses and I had to laugh at how completely different they look. I did a comparison awhile back when Lillian was younger. I think as young babies they did look very similar, but I'm definitely not seeing it anymore...They are completely opposite--in both looks and personality... :)

Feeling blessed.

Yesterday, we made a return visit back St. Vincent's..The hospital we so anxiously left 7 months ago. And when I thought about this as we walked through the doors, I was in disbelief that it was really that long ago. And even after 7 months, I still got chills as I walked through the halls--a pit in my stomach. Having to leave my baby in the hospital and watching her fight through the first few weeks of her life was one of the hardest things I think I've ever had to do.

Looking back now, I'm also realizing it was one of the most rewarding times as well--watching her grow and thrive, overcoming so many obstacles. Experiencing the amazing power of prayer firsthand. Growing in my faith more than ever and learning to trust God even in the hardest times.

Not to mention having the opportunity to meet so many amazing people..

My nurse, Sue, who hugged me and prayed with me during the days leading up to Lillian being born, who assured me I was in the right place and I was going to be ok, and more importantly, so was my baby.  She even rushed in at 5:00 in the morning on her day off when she heard I was about to go in for an emergency c-section so she could be my attending nurse in the delivery room.

The other attending nurse, Hope, who held my hand and cried with me when they told me they were going to have to deliver the baby NOW, at 29 weeks.

The doctor who took our last ultrasound right before the c-section. His comforting smile and the warmth in his eyes as he said she "looked beautiful and perfect", as though he hadn't delivered dozens of babies just like her before.

And the amazing NICU nurses and doctors, who took care of Lillian around the clock, who cheered her on and rejoiced in her milestones with us, and who were always assuring and encouraging us.

Yes, it was a very hard time, but God knew exactly what was to come. He had a plan beyond anything our minds could comprehend at the time. And we are so thankful for all we gained through the experience.

So yesterday we went back for Lillian's neonatal 6 month adjusted age clinic. They evaluated her and said she looked great. Other than some physical things we've been working on through physical therapy, they didn't see any concerns for her neurologically--a wonderful thing for us to hear! She is up to 11lbs 8oz now, which puts her in about the 3rd percentile for her adjusted age of  6 months. She's petite, but she's thriving. And that's more than anything we could ask for.

A successful appointment for Lillian, and another reminder of just how blessed we are!

A quote.

"May today there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others. May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content with yourself just the way you are. Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us."

-Mother Teresa



8 months.

It has come and gone so quickly, yet the months before you were here with us seem so distant. You just fit into our family as if you've always been here...

At just under 11lbs, it's hard to view you as 8 months old, though you are only 6 months by your adjusted age. People often look shocked when they ask your age and find you are much old than you appear. Your personality would show otherwise, though. Yes, you are petite but your personality is big and strong.

I love to hear you coo, babble and laugh. It melts my heart when I hear you giggle out loud. Your new thing is sticking out your tongue and blowing spit everywhere. You do it when you get excited, and you're quite good at it. You're proud of this new trick of yours, and you are quick to show it to anyone who is watching.

Your sister is still your favorite person to watch and she can still get you to laugh like no one else. She is loving that you are interacting with her more now, and you get so excited when she talks to you and plays with you.

You still sleep in our room with us. Not because you couldn't sleep in your crib, but because I simply like to have you close to me. You and your sister share a room now, even though you have never actually slept in there together. Occasionally you wake up during the night to eat, but for the most part you sleep right through.

You are eating a variety of fruits and vegetables now, but you really prefer your cereal. Your favorite food is bananas and your least favorite food is applesauce. You pretty much like all of your vegetables, though you don't take carrots as easily as you take the rest.

You are doing so well at physical therapy! Your therapist is always amazed at how well you're progressing every time she works with you, and so are we! You are using your arms more to push yourself up off the floor and you're rolling everywhere now. We can't put you up on the couch anymore, because you'd be sure to roll off! You are also getting very close to sitting up. We are so proud of you and the improvement you've shown. You're such a strong girl! I know there will come a day when we will never know you were born so early.

As much as I love watching you grow and learn new things, there is a small part of me that says "Just take your time. no need to rush." I know this time is fleeting, and I try so carefully not to push you to that next milestone. I'm enjoying this moment with you.

Happy 8 Months, Lillian Faith!