On my 29th birthday, I was gifted with the most precious birthday gift – a son! As Justin, Joy Belle, and I welcomed Britt Colby into the world, I’ve once again been reminded that babies are truly a gift from God and tiny miracles.
To Our Britt Colby,
On the day you were born, my fear of raising a son dissipated at the sight of your sweet and handsome face. It was truly love at first sight. Just when I thought I couldn’t love you more, my heart proved me wrong. From your tiny fingers and toes, to your red little pucker, I felt like my whole world had been completed.
When I saw you for the first time, I knew there would be many days I would wish you small again. And while I will savor every single second of your new life, my prayers will be for you to grow strong, tall, healthy, and a man of God. I am forever grateful that God’s plan is bigger and better than mine; and thankful that He entrusted your Daddy and I to help shape you into the man He wants you to be.
Always remember how much I love you, even though I’m sure I’ll remind you daily.
With Joy Belle making her debut via an emergency cesarean section, the birthing plan for this little one was a scheduled c-section. Without going into too much detail, I longed for a natural birthing experience. So, I clung to Psalm 37 – recognizing that He knows the desires of my heart and trusting in Him for His perfect plan to intercede. As the surgery date neared, I tried everything to induce labor; from bouncing on an exercise ball, to eating lots of pineapple and other old wives tales, but nothing worked.
Ultimately God’s plan included a second c-section to meet our second child. It wasn’t my plan, but I turned to Psalm 37 for comfort knowing that His plan has proven better than mine time and time again. Knowing this, Philippians 4:7 came to mind as, “the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension” guarded my heart and mind as the day approached.
On Thursday, August 4th, Justin and I hugged our girl tighter and savored our morning as a family of three. As we kissed Joy Belle and waved good-bye, I couldn’t help but tear up at the thought of how much our lives were about to change. It was bittersweet, as I was eager to meet our son and love another gift from above, but knowing that things would never be the same.
I thought I would be a nervous mess as we pulled up to the hospital, but instead I had a peace that could’ve only been from above. We were about to meet our son! Typical pre-op prep began with paperwork, blood work, and machines. Then, we sat and waited on the doctors. My surgery was scheduled for noon and about 5 minutes ’til, my doctor arrived. They took me briefly away from Justin to give me the spinal anesthesia and prep me for the surgery. It wasn’t long before they brought Justin into the operating room and things got started.
This time was so different than with Joy Belle. I knew what to expect, but we also weren’t concerned about the health of our baby. Everyone in the room talked casually with us (which was a huge blessing!) and I was able to hold Justin’s hand the entire time. This time, they even allowed me to see my boy come into this world – an experience I wanted and needed. It was a moment I’ll cherish forever.
As quick as it started, the surgery was over and my baby boy was laying on my chest. He was here and I instantly felt so grateful he was mine. Within seconds of seeing his handsome little face, we decided to name him Britt Colby – after his great-great-great grandmother and his Daddy. You can read more about how we chose his name here.
(My gown, Britt Colby’s swaddle, and his gown)
We’re in love.
(photos: Click Photography by Jay)
