My baby girl, Laura Rose is 3

I can hardly believe that is has been nearly 4 years since my journey began with bringing Laura Rose into this world - for those of you that do not know...I will tell a little of this story. It was Dec 31, 2004. I knew I just had to be expecting, took a test and yes, I was. My little Jacob was 2 1/2 and my whole world. I began to be anxious about the pregnancy, remembering the hard time I had with Jacob. Could it possibly be worse? About a week or so later I was already in and out of the hospital with morning sickness so severe (hyperemesis) I could no longer work, drive, take care of Jacob, and barely even take a shower by myself. It was a long, exhaustive road with so many trips to the emergency room, hospital and weekly visits to the OB/GYN. Oh yeah, and weekly deliveries from medical supply companies and a visit from a very sweet home health nurse. Will never forget the fun of checking my blood sugar twice a day and the occasional panic attack. (All the while, Mom & I are trying to potty train Jacob and the house flooded) This went on for about 4 1/2 months - a little over half of my pregnancy. I never did get over the nausea, but eventually could take care of my family again. Laura Rose was born September 1st, 2005 - and I hate to say it, but even my delivery was a little rough. But she has been worth every doctor visit, every moment of nausea, every trip to the bathroom to lose what little bit of food I could get down that day.

It was one of the hardest times of my life and Jason's. Jason was so strong. We could not have made it without the help of family - My Mom, especially (thank you Dad for letting her move to TN for a while) - also my sister and Jason's Mom came to stay with us and help. Our church family brought meal after meal, and gave us so much encouragement. I learned a lot about suffering and how to really be still before my Father in Heaven. I learned how to accept help, and let go of my pride.

To my children, whom I love with all my heart, who have been worth it all. I would go through it all again if I had to. To my Jason, who sat by the bed and sang hymns to me during my times of depression - I love you! I will never forget that.

Christie