Imprinted

One of our prayers during this time of waiting, is that God would prepare the hearts and minds of our family, of baby, and of the birth mother/family. I can see God's hand at work as He begins to answer this prayer for our family. Our hearts have been stamped, marked, impressed with love for baby - baby has an imprint on our hearts.

The dictionary defines the word imprint, as:

imprint n [ˈɪmprɪnt]

1. a characteristic mark or indication; stamp the imprint on his face [heart]

vb [ɪmˈprɪnt]

2. to establish firmly; impress; stamp to imprint the details on one's mind [heart]

It was a few weeks ago, that the kids and I started a conversation about my "babies" (as big as they get, they'll always be my babies). During our discussion, I referenced my "2 kids". This did not sit right with T. He quickly responded back to me, "Mom, you have 3 kids." Not completely sure of his 3rd referenced, I asked for clarification. "Mom, you have me, K and THE BABY. The Baby is your kid too". That was a huge moment for me. He already considers the baby as one of us - a Kahl - my 3rd "baby". My heart was swelled with joy and my eyes filled with tears.

Oh, and family pictures - goofy emotions were stirred up with the taking of family pictures, and it surprised me. There was a sense of longing that came with taking pictures as a family of 4. How many family pictures will we take before we are a family of 5?! Baby is imprinted on our hearts, but we have nothing physical to hold, love, snuggle or chase. As I look through our pictures, I can imagine baby snuggled right in there - there's a perfect spot waiting. Can you see it?!

Here's a glimpse of our family of 4. Praying that next photo session, we'll be sharing with you a family of 5!!!!