11 Weeks

I was 11 weeks pregnant when we first heard the rapid beating of our growing baby's heart. It was the most wonderful sound. If I could have bottled it, I would have saved it to hear anytime I had doubt, was worried, or my nerves were getting the better of me. That sound soothed anything that may have been going on in the world. I anxiously awaited each visit so that we could hear the rhythm again.

When Elijah was 11 weeks old I was preparing myself for the hardest part of being a mother so far: returning to work. More than labor, birth and sleepless nights, the thought of leaving my baby puts knots the size of eggplants in me. We enjoyed our walks, story time and naps on the couch together. I wrote schedules and notes and organized everything in his nursery for my babysitter. Little did I know the growth opportunity it would be for the both of us.

11 weeks ago Elijah was beginning his journey of independence. He was eating new foods, learning to scoot across the floor, and discovering new abilities each day. He was getting his two top teeth (he already had his bottom two). We were preparing to go on our first car trip out of state (what a nightmare that turned out to be!). As a family we were about to celebrate Adam's first Father's Day. Everyday brings excitment and learning as we watch our son grow.

11 weeks tomorrow we will celebrate our Elijah's First Birthday... his first birthday... one entire year old... no matter how many times I say it, think it, I can't believe it. This year has brought more blessings, joy, love, hope and grace than I could ever describe. I am so blessed that I get to spend my life watching this child grow up. Not only watch, raise. As his mother, I have been chosen to teach him, love him, guide him, help him find himself, provide him opportunities, show him God. There is nothing else I would rather be doing...