Happy 1st Birthday Elijah!

Elijah is the best surprise that has ever come into my life. When Dan and I found out we were expecting, the fear set in. It was the worst possible timing! We had only been in Africa for 3 months and were ready to work at ABC for two years straight. We had our plans. We loved our plans. But God had a different plan, and it didn't take long for us to realize that it was a much better plan.

God provided the funds for us to get back to Nashville. He provided my mom and her partner Cindy to take care of all our prenatal needs as well as a beautiful home birth (at a low cost of course). He provided strength for me during 13 hours of labor. Since Eli's birth, God has provided patience, grace and strength for me to learn how to be a mother on little to no sleep. I am so thankful for the little gift that God has given to us. I am blown away that God would trust me with such a precious person. He's my little guy, our Bubba and I wouldn't have it any other way.

This is our little guy at the beginning.

This is the last picture taken of me before Elijah was born. I am definitely 9 months pregnant here, but surprisingly not fat in the face at all! (as all the southern women liked to randomly tell me)

Of course there is always time for a picture! This one was taken during a contraction. It must have been far enough into laboring because I am in the pool, but not too far along because my hair still looks great. I had the most wonderful team of support-my family!!!
I love the Bradley method and recommend it to anyone who is interested in having a home birth. Dan was an amazing coach, encouraging me through each contraction.

Just when I thought I couldn't take it anymore, Elijah Forrest Goodnight Robbins was born on May 29th, 2008 at 6am. He weighed 7lbs 4oz.

A very proud papa with his first born son.

Cuddling my little guy the day after he was born.

And now, let's watch Eli grow:

Eli is only 3 days old.

Remember this picture? It is still one of my favorites. Eli is 1 week old here.

Eli at 6 weeks

Eli at 10 weeks

Back home in Malawi, Eli is 3 months.
Eli at 4 months

Eli at 5 months

Eli at 6 months

Elijah at 7 months

Eli at 8 months

Eli at 9 months

Eli at 10 months

Eli at 11 months
And now, Eli at 12 months!


Eli walking

Happy Birthday Eli!