That's how the saying goes, and that's the truth. I'm so grateful that Evie is home with us, and she's thriving. I was indignantly surprised that none of my plans (especially the birth plan) unfolded as I had envisioned. Being a realist, I still marvel at my naivete in planning how the birth would go, and when I'd resume life once baby #2 arrived. Where did this fantasy of expectations come from?
I have since regained my senses from this lapse in judgement, and I'm determined to do better, now that I know better. This is life. I'm hopeful that Evelyn will be off the oxygen by the holidays and that Maisey can return to preschool without fear of illness, but more importantly that she'll return without any lasting scars the learning curve that being a mother of two may have placed on her little shoulders.
Despite how difficult things have been, and keeping in mind the difficulties that may lie ahead, I'm thankful for:
--All the family and friends who rallied to our side during this time. It was truly moving to know that so many people are there for us. It's humbling.
--To the skilled and caring staff at WVU Hospital's NICU, especially the many nurses who made me feel that my baby was in good hands, and that we would get through this.
--My mom and niece, who handled everything while I was recovering from the surgery and struggling through the nerve headache.
--Especially to my husband, who ran a nonstop marathon between two hospitals to manage me at maternity and Evie at the NICU, at home to our three year old, our families, our friends, his work, and everything else in between. He truly is my hero.
--And to Evie, for reminding us all what we mean to each other.
