My sweet baby doll is turning two…

Two years ago today my life turned upside down…  But first, let me tell you the whole story, from the beginning…

There comes a time in every mama’s life when she feels its time.  Time to take down the baby crib, sort thru the teeny tiny clothes and give away all of the infant paraphernalia that has taken over the home.  Over the spring of 2008, I arrived at these same notions and decided to give most of our infant things away. Maternity clothes, infant clothes, car seat, bouncy seat, stroller, high chair: all gone.  And not just across town to a friend on loan.  No, we gave it all to missionaries taking necessities to Africa.

Michael and I were pleased to make the donation. We had Emily and Isaac.  Our family was complete, or so we thought.   That was in May.  Not long after, it seemed our thought patterns were changing, our hearts were opening…  Was there a member of our family missing?

In September we found out that indeed, someone was missing.  We were having a baby.  It was unnerving and exciting all at once… many things were out of order, a lot needed to be done, but, there was no doubt; our Heavenly Father was with us, bringing the peace that only comes with His unmistakable presence. Uncertainties were replaced with calm all along the way…

Two years ago today I went in for my 36 week check up just like normal.  My OB, a wonderful physician, came into the examining room.  He’s a good humored man, with a quick wit and always a joke on his lips. So, I knew something was wrong when he wasn’t smiling.  I was escorted to a room where I was put on a monitor for an hour.  And in case you’ve never been pregnant, I will tell you that an hour is just enough time to make a girl terribly nervous.

He came back to the room and kneeled down next to the recliner where I was trying to relax…  I’ll never forget the conversation,

“We’re going to put you on the schedule for tomorrow.”  and I said,

“Oh you want me to come back again to use the monitor?”

“No.  No – I need you to go to the hospital tomorrow and have this baby…”

silence.

But, I felt a light breeze blow through the room, that same familiar presence…

And do you know… the next day,  four weeks early, without a single complication our beautiful baby girl was born into our family.  Mackenzie Georgia Day.  I still remember holding her for the first time, and the peace that came gently whispering through the room.   It was Him – I couldn’t miss it.

Since then, its been an amazing 24 months watching our baby girl grow and learning how to be her parents. I’ve had moments where I wished I could have a “do-over”.  Other times I’ve wanted to play the “skip” card and move on to something easier.  After many sleepless nights, a few grumpy days, lots of giggles, a literal ton of dirty diapers and heaps of laundry, we are here.   two years old.

How did we make it to two?  It is only the loving kindness and mercy of a Heavenly Father who hovers in the room, bringing life and hope when we need it most.  Regardless of what else is in store with this sweet baby doll, He is with us, to help us make it to three years, to four, to five and so on, til forever.  That is His promise.

from John 14:

²⁷ Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

As we host our small family gathering to celebrate this lovely little girl’s life with a “pretty pink party” – not only will we rejoice in this remarkable life.  It will also be a moment for this mama to remember the goodness and love of our Heavenly Father who has kept His promise to this little family.