Four and a Half Weeks To Go

This pregnancy has been an adventure of epic proportions. Eight and a half months ago, I could not have imagined the challenges, heart aches, and joys we were to face in this journey. I hope that as we enter our 36^th week of pregnancy, we can honestly say that we have savored each moment of Lily’s growth and development. In the end, I think we will look back and find that we have grown in maturity and faith throughout this process. I think that we have learned how to let go of our plans and lean into the unknown by faith in God’s faithfulness.  Not that we have already achieved all this but we press on to master humility, faithfulness, and joy through Christ who is our Strength.

Last Friday we were excited to find out that the amniotic fluid surrounding Lily was back up to a 12! Our average has been around a 7 (the desired scale being an 8-14), despite my endless fluid intake. We were so thankful for that good news. As far as Lily’s heart, the same pulmonary valve still remains closed it seems. Please continue to pray for her healing. Blake and I are eager to meet our little girl and to hold her in our arms in just a few short weeks.

This weekend, the McKinneys paid us a much needed visit, bringing with them cookies, banana bread, paper plates, and a helpfulness that exceeded our expectations for the weekend. We enjoyed their company and shared many laughs as they worked hard to help us prepare for Lily’s arrival. (Thank you, McKinneys!) I am looking forward to seeing some of my family in just a few days after several months of phone calls and a couple of video chats. There is nothing like a hug from your mother. I think that is probably true at any age. For now, we will wait for the weekend and enjoy the love Lily gives us in her twists and turns and kicks. Thank you for your prayers and encouragement!