Visitors

We've enjoyed many visitors these past few days: grandparents (and great) on both sides as well as aunts and uncles and cousins. Aaron's sister and brother-in-law from Vernal have come to visit for a few days and my brother Rob and his family also came to share some more time with Merideth this weekend.

Rob and Elizabeth have been a particular source of strength and example to me throughout our pregnancy as they had a similar experience with their sweet Paige six years ago who lived only 2 weeks. Although Paige and Merideth were born with different complications, there are many things that have reminded me of their experience. Elizabeth called me periodically throughout the pregnancy to check on how I was doing and to give advice of what to expect at the hospital and share emotions that only a mother who has been through having a baby with a serious birth defect can understand. I was so touched by their own strength and grace as they said goodbye to Paige that it has given me strength to face our own challenges.

Elizabeth thoughtfully offered to come to hospital to be with us for additional support for whatever we might need. She was especially helpful in taking so many pictures of family who came to visit and of the baby blessing. While here at our home she and I had great conversations about babies and new mother issues and had lots of fun finding cute outfits for Merideth to wear. I am sure that Paige was on her mind a lot and as I thanked her for all the help and support she has been this week, she said that it helped fill a hole in their own hearts to be able to hold Merideth.

We had a much better night with Merideth last night and she is back to nursing well. When people ask how she is doing, my initial response is “great” because she is doing all the things normal newborns do. She is a healthy size and has good coloring and does not look sickly, so one would not guess that she has other health problems.

This week has flown by. Aaron and I have felt the spirit witness to us on various occasions that we are following the Lord’s path for Merideth and that gives us great peace and assurance.