The crisp smell of sterilized linens accents the respectably quiet hallway. Miracles await behind the row of closed doors. I am anxious as I near the Lundstrom room, but trustfully filled with hope. What feels like a timeless era ago, this was me – balanced precariously in a state of vague uncertainty. I pray to be of comfort and to say the right words, to offer them hope, to be a vessel for the Holy Spirit. As I enter the room I am embraced into a great sense of peace, literally and figuratively. We wait and we pray, tears cascading over smiles.
A labor of true and unconditional love transpires as the minutes indifferently tick by. Outside the window a lone barn swallow soars effortlessly through the air, unaware of the anxiety behind this window of the building below. My hands clenched in prayer, I quietly plead for this family.
There is something to be said for the mommy and the daddy who boldly choose to walk down this path. The ones who stand bravely firm against the callous suggestions to end the pregnancy because it isn’t “perfect”. This beautiful example of sacrificial love makes my heart swell.
By noon the great moment was upon us. With each great effort we waited and we listened. We prayed. At 12:35 pm, she joined us in this world. The beautiful sound of a newborn cry, Runner Cosette Lundstrom, beautiful baby girl.
Outside the window there were an unmistakable second and third barn swallow who joined the first. I watched the three birds perform their aerial acrobatics as I gave tearful thanks and praise to God.
What a great honor it has been today to be present for this miraculous birth. To hold her, to love her and to advocate for Runner was such an incredible gift.
As I lay here in bed tonight, my thoughts and prayers are ever with Natalie, Will, the rest of their amazing family, and that BEAUTIFUL, PERFECT baby girl. Her feisty little cry echoes in my mind like a favorite song of which I will never forget the lyrics.
Throughout the day Runner had experienced several apnea episodes. Please pray that these will subside and that her precious, unique little body will adjust to life outside of her mama’s protective womb. Please also pray for a smooth transition from the hospital to their home, that all the little details will be taken into account.
This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
(Psalm 118:24 ESV)
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James 1:2-4 NIV)
iwillcarryyou 
Beautiful post. Congrats to the new parents, my thoughts are with them and their baby girl.
And you, Aleisa, are amazing for doing this. Just reading this brought tears to my eyes, and I cannot imagine how it must have been for you.
Thank you! Thank you for being with Natalie and Will and Runner. As I will never understand this road they walk, I am soaking up what I can to understand. I am thankful for this insight and perspective. I feel that I am able to be closer to them hearing your words of wisdom, experience, and love. I am honored to see a glimpse, of both your story and theirs.
Dear God I ask that You place your loving arms around this family and allow them to feel your peace. Guide them along this road bringing more people like This Strong Amazing Woman you have already blessed them with. I continue to pray for Aleisa an her family knowing there will always be apart of that little girl in their lives, but their will also be a Big Part of you in their Hearts to help them through the day to help people like this family. Thank you God. Amen