Humbled in Houston

Tuesday, December 6, 2016

A millennial living in the Instagram world, each milestone in my adult life has been documented with an artsy filter and catchy caption. I had the dream wedding, went on perfect vacations, caught the most magnificent sunsets. The expected lifestyle of a married, educated, 20-something person living in America captured in perfect little squares for all her friends to heart. It's the same perfection I envisioned in sharing the arrival of my first-born child with the world. I still love Instagram, but man...have I been humbled.

A perfectly imperfect moment captured by m.roberts photography
I remember our pastor discussing humbling experiences days within us finding out the news of William's heart defect. He said something to the effect of--right when you think you've got it all, when you're on top of the world, God can knock you down. You can be suddenly and utterly humbled. This was an especially difficult message to accept. After all, I thanked God for my blessings in life everyday. Wasn't that enough? What did I do to deserve this? 

After much reflection, I realize it's not about who deserves what. I (we) got handed a crappy card, but it doesn't mean the whole hand stinks. When something terrible happens in life, you can choose to undergo a certain change. That change involves truly and wholly appreciating every good moment. A good ole' reminder to "count your blessings" is all it takes. Cliche or not, it's an important message to never lose sight of. My life is beautiful and blessed, even when it's not perfect. 

So let's talk about some more of those blessings. Besides doctor's appointments, we've been able to do quite a bit during our extended "baby moon" in Houston. Waiting on William has included going to countless delicious restaurants. If you ever need a place, don't bother with Yelp. I can get you squared away on everything from steak to Mediterranean, small plates to southern! This week, however, we made a trip to the grocery store and I made five different freezer meals in one night. I figured eating out is going to get old eventually! We've also made it to the zoo, twice. We first checked in with the feathered and hoofed during the day (skipped the reptiles). Then, we went to "Zoo Lights" with Walter's family on Thanksgiving night. Pretty magical if you love Christmas or have a soul! ;)
Me and my sister-in-law Jennie at Zoo Lights
Let's see, what else? Well, I've been to the Galleria and Highland Village for Christmas shopping a good handful of times. We went to the Museum of Natural Science to check out the dinosaurs with my family. We've walked around Hermann Park and the whimsical Centennial Gardens. And we've also frequented the Rice Village area for its shops and restaurants. These last few items all a stones throw from our apartment complex. We've caught up with friends...old and new. My husband and I have also been able to enjoy each other, soaking in the last of life when it was just us. Oh and then there's the weather. It's pretty fabulous when you are not a fan of Panhandle winters. Life isn't too shabby.

Walter ice skating at the Galleria 😀
Still, our situation is less than ideal. What I would give some nights to be back in my actual bed. My eyes water and my heart throbs every time we get sent a picture of our dog back home, staying with relatives (whom we can never repay). The letters we receive on a daily basis have the same effect. I've never known what it really means to feel homesick until now. I can recall awkwardly trying to comfort a friend at cheer camp or freshman year at college. Those few individuals who physically hurt because of it. I now understand that feeling. I know how bad it hurts to yearn for the comforts of home. To miss my dog, my bed, my students and co-workers, my friends and family.

39-weeks pregnant 

At Centennial Gardens
As soon as I want to crumble, I remember the aforementioned blessings. How fortunate we are to be in this medical hub, awaiting the birth of our son. How lucky we are to have each other to lean on. How much of an incredible blessing our baby boy will be, despite any medical troubles he has. 

So, here we wait...and not for much longer. The newest member of our little family will be here any day now! We can't wait to see him for the first time and share him with all of you...Instagram picture perfect or not. The moment will be perfect to us and so will he. Thank you all for the continued positive vibes and prayers. We appreciate every letter, call and message.

There is one more thing I have on my heart. Once Augie arrives, we ask that in lieu of flowers, balloons, bears, etc., anyone wishing to send something simply donate to Texas Children's Hospital instead. The hospital is undergoing expansion and we believe in helping this cause. Please follow the link below to find out how you can help. This would be a great gift to us and our son!