Happy Birthday, Baby!

I'm going to be a big sister today!

November 29, 2010....it's 5:45 am and I'm anxiously awaiting the time we leave for the hospital this morning (around 7:30ish). We've been anticipating, praying, thinking, dreaming, planning and had this day in our minds for many, many months now. Baby Cole #2 will be born today!!
After many thoughtful discussions and considerations with Greg and my doctor(s) - we decided to schedule a c-section at 39 weeks. Without boring you and going into too much detail, it just seemed like the safer and more feasible option. There was a lot of prayer and thought that went into it, but I feel very comfortable with the decision. While opting for surgery wouldn't necessarily be my first choice, I've gone through it before and am better prepared for what's coming. And in the end, as long as there's a healthy and happy baby in our arms...that's all that matters!
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There are so many emotions and thoughts that have been swirling in my head - but the overwhelming feeling is excitement! I can't wait to meet this new and miraculous little being. I can't wait for Lily to be a big sister. She definitely knows something big is going on! For many months now we've been trying to prepare her (reading books, talking about the baby, showing her the new baby things) and the last few days she's just been wired. She gets excited in the car when she sees the "new baby seat." We tell her she'll have to sing to the baby and watch over the baby and she excited says "yes - and feed baby bottle" or "hold the baby." She's going to be an amazing big sister. It's kinda funny, too - whenever we ask her if she wants a baby sister or brother...she replies with sister. Who knows!? I'm sure either way she's going to be one excited little girl.
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We've taken a lot of special "Lily time" these past few weeks and here are a few pictures from some recent events. It's been a busy time with Thanksgiving and family, but wouldn't have it any other way and it actually made the last week or so go by very quickly. What a blessing to be surrounded by such wonderful family and friends.
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I've also had a mile-long "to do" list but I'm much better being busy and with "stuff to do" then just sitting around waiting for this to come. I feel like we're as prepared as we can be...and I know there are going to be ups and downs to becoming a family of 4 - but we're ready as we'll ever be! I think about the fact that a baby is born every 4-8 seconds (I looked this up and there were varying answers!) UNREAL! This amazing event happens literally every few seconds but it's mind blowing to me to think that each and every time it's a little miracle occurring.
I can't wait for our miracle. We'll keep you posted! :)