Claire

On January 29, 2010 my fourth niece was born. Claire McMillon Garner arrived four weeks early and weighed only 5lbs 1oz. She was 17 inches long... and she was healthy. So many people have asked my sister, "Will you try again for a boy?" My sister and I both stare at their ignorance. Appalled at their audacity and rudeness. Is a healthy girl not enough? How can you hold a healthy child in your arms, boy or girl, and not acknowledge the blessing that has been granted? Jenni and I were only 3 weeks apart in our due dates. Today, I would have been 33 weeks pregnant. As my sister's due was approaching, part of me became very jealous. I could feel myself withdrawing and my heart filled with sorrow for what my own arms wouldn't hold. And yet, the most amazing thing happened. A miracle really. When I walked into the hospital room and saw her, there was no bitterness in my heart. I picked her up and acknowledged her for the perfect blessing that she is. The birth of a baby is God's way of starting things over. Of new beginnings. As I held Claire, I couldn't begin to imagine a better beginning for a new year. Happy Birthday Claire.