"Life is always a rich and steady time when you are waiting for something to happen or to hatch." ~E.B. White, Charlotte's Web

"What letter are you on?"  I've been hearing that question from family and friends over the past seven months or so.  As Sarah has been growing a baby, I have been stitching a blanket for that precious little one - an alphabet blanket.  Each square is cross-stitched with a letter of the alphabet and corresponding baby animal.  And each letter takes an average of fifteen hours to complete - some more, and some less.  

Once I finish the letters, I will add her name and birth date in the remaining two squares.  So once I've completed it, I will have spent over 400 hours of cross-stitching Lydia's blanket.  As you might guess, this blanket, along with the necessary stitching supplies, has become an extension of myself.  It has gone with me to doctor's office waiting rooms, traveled several times with me to Dallas, a few times to College Station, and it has also made a few trips with me to Houston.  Back in June, Lydia's blanket even went with me to Canada.  

I have stitched while watching old episodes of Gilmore Girls, several seasons of Downton Abbey, and many Texas Ranger's games.  I have also stitched while visiting with family and friends.  But most of my stitching time when I am alone has been spent in quiet meditation, as I think about the precious child that will soon be wrapped in this blanket.  

Those quiet, alone thoughts as my hands steadily stitch have led to hours of prayer for sweet Lydia.  I have prayed for her good health and safety as she grows and will soon make the transition from womb to world.   I have prayed for her heart - that she will always have a tender heart to godly instruction, and that she will grow up to be a blessing in this world and a strong force for God.  I've stitched while praying for her mama and daddy, as they are about to embark on the most important journey of their lives.  And I've prayed for myself and Jeff, and all of those who will love her and have an influence in her life - that we will all help to steer her toward God.  As all of us do, I know that Lydia will have difficult days and tests of her faith in this life - I have prayed about those times as well, that she will grow and learn from them, and always be full of faith, and joy.

"What letter are you on?"  If you ask me that question today, I will tell you "X."  And as I complete these last few letters, Sarah is completing her last few weeks of nurturing Lydia inside of her womb.  The blanket will soon be finished, and Lydia will soon arrive in this world, but the prayers will continue.  

I've been told by others who have already crossed into the life of grandparent-hood that nothing compares, and it is truly indescribable - I cannot wait to experience those feelings first-hand, to hold sweet Lydia in my arms, and to make lots of fun memories with her as she grows.  And with her birth just weeks away, my excitement and anticipation grows with each passing day.

I better get busy - I have about 50 hours of stitching (and praying) to go.