i can't even type the first sentence without crying, which of course couldn't be hormones, but anywho... we joyfully welcomed Hannah Amelia into our lives on September 12, 2008 at 7:35pm. Discovery. Each day since Friday morning when the contractions began has been totally unreal, totally unfamiliar, full of anticipation. it's difficult to write this entry because there are no perfect words to describe the last 5 days. no doubt, my world is rocked. and i can't pick all the ways i want to describe it.

Faith. i am pretty sure i just entered a whole new realm of grasping faith. i already beg God for strength, protection, wisdom and understanding to care for this baby girl. i am so so very aware of my inadequacy and also His perfect design. I can't believe she is given to us to raise, and yes Lord, i need thee every hour. Partner. I knew he would be unbelievable, i just didn't exactly what it would look like to be joined in this new way. Stephen has not missed a moment to love Hannah or me. He is tender and strong, caring so actively for us in everyway. there is no person in the world i would rather pass at 2:30am in the morning as we tag team this new era of our marriage.

Uncanny Love. there is this beautiful play going on in our house right now as stephen and i learn about our uncanny love for our new daughter that we are recieving totally uncanny love from our parents. we loved having the osters and the wilsons at the hospital awaiting hannah's arrival. and they have both continued to give unbelievabley back to us as we welcome hannah into our lives. my parents come in each day and work tirelessly to care for us so that we may put all our energy into discovering hannah. our gratitude for the depth of love and faith that raised both of us is unending and totally inspiring to how we begin our journey.

hannah.

I am not sure i need to use more words here, but wanted to update you with a few snapshots from our first 6 days. She is a delight and we are learning each other every day.