An unexpected gift.

Life is just so unexpected sometimes. Lily and I left Kentucky last Friday to come to Louisiana for the funeral of my dear friend, Stephanie's Mom. We came to be with Stephanie and to celebrate Mrs. Rachel's life. I love Mrs. Rachel and have many fond memories of her from girl scout camp trips in young childhood to a teenage trip to Chicago with her and most recently, swimming with her and my daughter. Our lives have been interwoven for many years and I was blessed to have known her. She doesn't even know it but she gave me one final gift. I came into town to say goodbye to her and by doing so, I got to be there for that miraculous moment when my nephew first arrived into this world. My sister gave birth to Luke Stanton today at 10:23 a.m. and I was right there with her. I have never before experienced anything so amazing and beautiful and awe inspiring in my life. It is hard to describe the conflicting emotions of the last week. I don't even know if words can do that. I just know that at 10:23 this morning, I was in the right place at the right time. I watched Luke enter this world in a beautiful hospital suite with his Mom and Dad, aunt and grandmother all there to welcome him with open hearts. It was such a beautiful moment and one that took my breath away. I was so lucky to be here. What an unexpected gift!

As I held him this evening and looked at his tiny exquisite face and his head full of hair, I also wondered what it was like when Lily came into this world and what it will be like for our baby Becky. I know in my heart that it will be just as miraculous. I know what a miracle it was for Lily to be matched with us. She is so perfect for our family and I am sure that Becky will be just right for our family. Still it is moments like today that just make you wonder. I wish could be there! I wish that mine could be the first face that she sees and the first one to welcome her to this world. At the same time, I know that if that were the case then I wouldn't be on this journey.

Tomorrow morning, I will take Lily to meet her new cousin, Luke. She is very excited to meet him. I can't wait to see her face when she holds him for the first time. And still, I'll wonder...