sweet baby of mine

Dear Eliza Grace, 

I have always loved Valentine's Day, but this last February 14th was especially memorable and special for our little family because it was the day of my 20-week ultrasound. The day we would find out your gender.

Audrey and Elliot waited expectantly at my dear friend Chelle's house, while Daddy and I went to the ultrasound. On the way home, we picked up some balloons to announce the news to them in a special way. I am so thankful that Chelle was able to capture on camera the moment that Audrey and Elliot heard the news. They were so excited!

A little girl. 

Oh dear one, I cannot begin to tell you what a joy it was to me to find out that we are having another girl. With my other pregnancies I can honestly say I never had a gender preference. But this time, something in my heart wanted another daughter (you!) so badly. 

Before the ultrasound, I prepared myself to hear the news that we were having a boy. I prayed and prayed about it, asking the Lord to give me joy and to help me to be content either way. But I was so scared.  

When the ultrasound tech told us we were having a girl, my heart literally felt like it was going to burst. I was so surprised! I think that I will always remember that moment as being a time when I felt really, really loved by God. I feel like He truly heard my cry and gave me the desire of my heart in you. Beautiful, amazing you. 

Daddy and I have chosen to name you Eliza Grace.  

Eliza means "pledged to God"; I love that meaning. I love it because that is my prayer for you- that as you grow up, your life would be lived for the Lord, pledged to Him. But I also love it because ever since the moment I knew you were coming, I have had to daily give you back to God, trusting Him with your life. Holding you with open hands because I know now more than ever before that my children are ultimately not my own, but His. 

We chose Grace as your middle name for a few reasons. Our deepest prayer is that you would come to know Jesus and His grace. We pray that you will become a woman who gives grace to others. And we feel like you and your life are such a testament of God's love and grace in our own lives; you are such a gift from Him to us, sweet girl! 

I am counting down the days until I get to meet you face to face and hold you in my arms. July cannot come fast enough! I love you so much, Eliza! 

Love, Mama