Esther is Here!

Esther is here!!!!! It's been quite the adventure into motherhood, dear friends and family! I'm very satisfied and proud of the way our labor and delivery went. I had hoped for a fully natural birth, and even though it ended in c-section, I labored naturally without any medication from 6:15 am Sunday until receiving an epidural early Monday morning, and delivering by a non-emergency c-section at 9:06 AM Monday.

I was empowered by the Holy Spirit, and aware of His presence throughout, largely due to the unbelievable support of Peter, my husband who is a man of unsurpassed patience who sacrifices himself daily for me, and Caila Pobuda, our incredible doula who stood beside Peter, Esther and I like Aaron and Hur, who held up Moses' arms during battle for the victory to happen.

One of my biggest joys is knowing Esther is coming into a community that is phenomenal. It's been a constant encouragement to see each like, comment, photo, snapchat, Instagram post, text message etc from everyone showing their love and support for us. I have already been floored by your generosity, friends near and far--THANK YOU. Your prayers have been answered in uncountable ways and I look forward to seeing the Lord's faithfulness as He continues to answer your prayers for our family.
The Kingdom of God is truly being shown in Kalamazoo, at least in the circles I'm in. People, this city, and you and your family, might be going through hard times, but the greater Church here in Kalamazoo, the people I know, are rocking this verse in real life: "Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples," John 13:35.