Birth Story: From across the street

{creative liberties taken}

Linda was awake. Once again she just couldn't sleep. In typical Linda fashion she made the most of her extra night time hours, she was cleaning. Her chore of choice this early Thursday morning was dusting. It took a little longer with all of the Christmas decorations on many surfaces.

She was the first to notice there was something amiss in the normally quiet neighborhood. Right before four she saw lights come on across the street. The young father living there ran out in the rainy weather and started the car. Then he came out carrying his toddler and some bags and returned to the house. Moments later he ran back out and took the crying child back in.

Linda did not have long to analyze what she'd seen, for within minutes the dark street erupted in flashing lights and vehicles. First, policemen. Next, paramedics in a first response vehicle. Then, a couple in a jeep who Linda recognized as relatives. Finally, the wail of sirens was heard and an ambulance arrived.

Her curiosity couldn't be contained. She threw on a jacket and crossed the street. She approached the officers near the porch. Despite her manners and benign questions, she was only told "I'm sorry ma'am. We can't say."

to the world

There is a lot to be said about Eli and his amazing story. But I'm tired. And since a picture is worth a thousand words...

Announcing...

Elijah Parker Starr was born into his astonished mother's hands on December 16th at 4:10am at home. He was shortly introduced to his startled father Jason, big brother Mason, shocked policemen,  skilled paramedics, excited grandparents, and eventually an ambulance crew.

Eli weighs 8 lbs and is 19 inches long. We are overwhelmed at his entrance to this world and feel so blessed to have a happy healthy baby.

dear mary, I'm sorry

Today I was thinking about the reason we have Christmas and all that Christ did for me. I started to think of his mother, Mary, and how difficult it must have been for her to bring him into this world under such humble conditions. I was filled with guilt as I reviewed all of my modern comforts and conveniences. I have my medical professionals, family, and friends on stand by. I pretty much know how and where I will be delivering my child. Goodness, I complain of discomfort! Imagine traveling over 100 miles on foot or on a donkey! So Mary, I'm sorry. And, of course, thank you.

compare and contrast

I know that I shouldn't compare my kids... so I'll compare pregnancies! I've been noticing some little differences. It's almost like this is a whole new boy or something.

With my first I lost a lot of weight before I gained any. 

With the second I only lost a few pounds and feel a lot bigger.

I would get crazy bad leg cramps with Mason at night. 

Occasionally my foot will get a charlie horse, but it's heartburn that bothers me this time around. 

Mason had a sweet spot on my right rib that he would attack with his feet. It was always tender and sore. 

Lucky is a little less intense but always seems to be squirming. He does do barrel rolls when I least expect it.

I used to get dizzy in the shower with the first. 

I am addicted to baths and soaking my joints lately.

My feet would swell a bit at night and it felt really strange to get out of bed in the morning with tight toes. 

I get up every night between 3-4am STARVING. Bread and jam and back to bed.