last night before we are about to skype for my big introduction, Stephen says to me, maybe try not to cry so much during the intro. aaron in all of his wonderful wit answers the skype and says, "why are you calling, what's up?" seconds later he is reaching to pick up this wonderful bubbly cheeked button nose baby girl. she screams, naturally, it is traumatic to be out of womb, and nevermind being on skype in your first 48 hours of life. she's never even worn an outfit yet. aaron soothes her by singing "You are my sunshine,"....and i cover my mouth to hold back the ensuing sob. it doesn't work, they flow despite me, despite stephen's request, I am in awe. Nevermind that the next move is a pass off to a totally beautiful woman in a hospital bed, it's my sister. holding. her. little. girl. Finally. (and now again, tears.)

My joy is literally overflowing. I am completely beside myself to think of them starting this journey. so many things were utterly heinous to get them to this place of pure, unmatched joy of meeting their baby girl. As soon as the proud grandfather, Ba, sent the first pics of Aaron leaning over the bedside by Amy and fresh new baby Sadie, i choked up. My heart pulsing loudly as I offered gratitude that I too had the privilege of knowing that moment, of being familiar with all that moment in time captured means. and i cannot stop giving thanks that this is the moment Amy and Aaron are now in, oh thank you Jesus.

the first week, the blur, the adrenaline, the way your heart expands instantly. the brand new dynamic between the parents as they marvel at this perfect creation, this generous gift. oh my. it's all too good to be true. and i just can't stop thinking how lucky Sadie is, how cool her mom is, how brave her mom has been for years and years as she has longed to hold her, how bad the labor was but is almost forgotten when she sees that sweet face. I am so thankful, so hopeful for this new chapter. growing the wilson family has seemed so much more complicated than any of us would ever have dreamed, so we don't dare forget the treasure of Isaac, Hannah, and Sadie as they keep our line going. Welcome Miss Sadie, i love you already.