We did it again! Thank you, Lord! I arrived in Maryland on Tuesday evening and Emily went into labor on Wednesday (July 22nd) morning...and we met Elijah Philip Ashby (another BOY!) at 5:44p.
You can read about her birth here. But I will tell you that it was an intensely beautiful, wonderful water birth! Emily handled the labor with grace and strength while I papparazied around, capturing the whole thing in pictures. The only thing better than birthing yourself is watching your sister birth. Dan (the other 1/2 to D*N*A Doulas) and I behaved ourselves this time around and were joined by Tina, a real doula, that really saved the day!
We were home by 11p that night...got a full night's sleep before big brother Luke came home. Luke bonded with his Aunt May-mee....and I so enjoyed getting to spend some quality one:on:one time with my first-born nephew. He helped me pick up pizza, grocery shop, fix things (his fave pastime) and posed for lots of my pictures. He wore the I'M THE BIG BROTHER shirt with pride and joy!
It was difficult to leave that newborn smell on Friday, but I sure did miss my boys...who looked inifinitely bigger and more beautiful than when I left them earlier in the week. They were busy, busy, busy with Daddy and Gram while I was gone and were nice enough to greet me with big hugs and kisses...Mason exclaimed, "Mommy...you're HOME!" I did have to chase Levi around and around for his sweet lips, but it was well worth it for the sound of his laughter whilst I chased.
And, of course, I missed Tim...but I was so grateful for the honor to witness the miracle of life yet again. God Bless You, Elijah Philip!
