Saturday, May 2, 2009

Lily

I have had the opportunity to hold the world in my arms four times--August 29, October 19, September 24, and April 30. It never ceases to amaze me that the more I hold, the less time I seem to have, but despite the time that diminishes, my love grows. How is it that the concept of division seems to multiply when we talk about love?

There has been so little time to process much of anything. Yesterday, I didn't have much of a minute to myself; I was so bombarded with hospital staff and visitors and phone calls. I appreciated them all, but it was exhausting, and this introvert needed her me-time.

There are so many things to talk about and so little time. Time. I can't tell you how many times I've looked at the clock and been in awe because each time I look is time that has past--time that God has given me with Lily. And every time I look at that clock, I say a quick prayer for what I've been given. It is 9:35, and I've had 58 hours with her! Fifty-eight hours!

My biggest hope was to just be able to look into her eyes, to interact with her for a few hours, to show her our love. I have been blessed beyond measure with that time with her! My second hope was to not leave the hospital with empty arms. Today at 11:50 am, Lily breathed her first breath of fresh, southern air. I feel as if I got more than I bargained for! And now, at 9:38 pm, I've stopped my thoughts. Instead of looking to the future, I'm happily stuck in the here and now, glancing back at the past three days with a grateful heart.

The world may consider Lily imperfect, but she is perfect for me. She's tiny. She's peaceful. When she's awake, she's alert and has the biggest eyes. She's got a little squeak of a cry, when she cries. She's got the biggest feet I've ever seen on a baby. I think she planned on going skiing as soon as she was born! :) She has a cry that says, "Don't bother me!" and one that says, "I'm hungry!" and one that says, "I'm very irritated!" I'm in awe!

I've got to go take care of some mommy business, but I hope to add a few new pictures later tonight.

10 comments:

  1. Go Lily!!!!!!! I am so blessed and amazed by this little angel. Please let me come to your home and do more pictures for your family. Continuously in prayer!!!!

    Love
    LeeAnn
    NILMDTS

    ReplyDelete
  2. YEA!!!!! I am SO thrilled for you! I can't wait to see more pictures and hear more about her. How much did she weigh? You are SO lucky! God has blessed your entire family.

    Call me anytime.
    Jen

    ReplyDelete
  3. I want to just scream at the top of my lungs!!! Thank you GOD for allowing this precious precious time.

    Soak it up, breathe it in, enjoy every second, live for the moment!

    Much love from California!
    Nichole

    ReplyDelete
  4. Vera is now 14 months and I'm still in awe everyday. This is the blessing of Trisomy 18 - we treasure every moment more than ever. Lily is already part of the 10% that make it to birth. Isn't that just amazing? And guess what? Vera has the same big feet too while everything else is small. What a miracle you are Lily!

    ReplyDelete
  5. Oh my goodness, I can't tell you how happy this post makes me. I am in awe, too.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Isn't is amazing what a positive outlook, faith, hope and love will do? Of course, God had so much to do with this miracle, but Jill and Dave deserve much credit for bringing Lily into the world with their strength and courage. Thank you for following your heart in all of the decisions you made for Lily. She is absolutely gorgeous and perfect.

    I can't wait to meet her. I am trying to figure out a way to get there soon!

    Love always, Yvonne

    ReplyDelete
  7. Go Lily!! This is so awesome. Jill and Dave just live in the moment. I am so thrilled that you have reached out to all of us and let us share this miracle with you. Lily is a gem and the most perfect little southern lady!!
    Love
    Theresa Spieker

    ReplyDelete
  8. Oh Jill! She is so beautiful!!! You have been given a wonderful gift of time from God. What a blessing He has given you! I know you and Dave and the girls are cherishing each moment. Thanks for taking the take to keep us posted because ya'll are in our thought every second of every day.
    Peace and Grace and lots of love!
    Lisa

    ReplyDelete
  9. jill, i could not be happier for you guys! my eyes just continue to shine with tears every time i think of the gift you have been given. i am so thrilled that lily is home with you!! she is absolutely adorable :)

    enjoy your beautiful little girl and give her lots of love from toot and i!!

    love
    laurie

    ReplyDelete
  10. I'm so happy for yall. Lily is definitely a fighter and must feel how much love yall have for her! Hope we can talk soon. Love, Amy

    ReplyDelete