Eliza

The day that Eliza was born Kristin, the friend, and I(Sha) went up to the hospital to see the little angel.  I almost felt like I was intruding, it felt like sacred ground.  Every birth feels that way to me.  Babies are so newly sent from our Father's arms and the veil is thin.  This was different.  Josh had had surgery just a few weeks before.  He was sick and seemed so fragile.  The uncertainty of his diagnosis and treatment was scary, making their emotions fragile as well.  As I walked into the room, I felt love.  When I looked at baby Eliza and held her I fell in love with her too, as was clearly written on Kristen, Josh and Grammy's faces already.  As Kristen held her I saw peace.  As Josh held her I saw joy.  That is what Eliza has brought, love, peace, and joy. 

Even though this year has been one of difficulty and trial, there has been a bright ray of sunshine in the Baumgarten's daily lives-Eliza!  (Not to say that the boys haven't been also, but this post is about her)  As Kristen was getting ready to have Eliza I asked her if she was excited. She said that she was excited for her to come but thought that the timing was way off and wished she could have her without all the chaos and uncertainty of Josh's diagnosis and treatment.  I remember thinking the same thing and my heart broke for them.

But now, at least for me, and I think Kristen would also agree, the Lord's timing of bringing Eliza was perfect.  Crazy to think that He would have known huh?;)  This little girl has brought so much love, peace, and pure joy into her family's life and those around her.  I have been privileged to witness the special bond that she has with each member of her family.  When she is around they light up and love eminates into the room.  It is precious to say the least.

A week ago we celebrated Eliza's first birthday.  Again, I felt privileged to be there, to capture it, to witness the love that she brings and that all have for her.