Grayson

Almost 29 years ago, I became a mother for the first time.  Motherhood has truly been one of my most honored roles, and I am grateful daily for our awesome children.  I have often heard people say that being a grandparent is even better.  I wondered about that. . . how could that be?  I think I am beginning to see just how that statement may be true.

Brittney on her "birth" day!  She was a beautiful 9 lb. baby herself.  See any resemblance?

Little Grayson Stuart Maxfield was born on July 15th, weighing 9 lbs, 1 oz., and 20 inches long.  Brent and I are giddy grandparents!  I think the "joy and rejoicing in your posterity" concept stems from your own experiences of raising your children, and culminating in witnessing these very same adult children feel such happiness and instant love for their first brand new son.  Essentially, I'm "over the moon" myself, but I'm especially thrilled for Brittney and Stuart as they begin their own parenthood path. Whew, what a story this little guy has!  It took a long time to get him here and we are just so grateful for a healthy, beautiful boy.   Our family has been blessed with a miracle.

Grayson just minutes old. . . talking to his Dad!

Here's the scoop in a nutshell:  I left Spokane on July 9th and spent the first 4 days in Richfield with Mom and Dad.  I just missed seeing my other siblings who were there for the July 4th holiday.   On July 13th I headed back up to Provo to be on "baby watch."  On Saturday morning, July 14th, Brittney's water broke.  Good.  I just kind of knew that she would go early, and was pleased that I was back up north.  Long story short, after almost 24 hours of labor, lots of prayers, thoughtful decisions, and wise medical advice, the decision was made that a c-section was necessary.   Our little baby was "sideways" and somehow laying on the cord.  Trying to help him get repositioned proved stressful, so all the options had been exhausted.  Thank goodness for hospitals and modern medicine (how many times have we said that in the last couple of years???)  Like Brittney said, "I don't know why I expected a routine delivery. This whole experience has been anything but routine!" In the end, however, we still got the prize--Grayson was born strong and healthy, and that's all that matters. 

As he locked eyes with all of us for several hours after his birth, it was like he was calming us down, reassuring us that everything would be OK, that he had arrived and that it didn't matter how he got here--he was here.  He looked so intently at each of us and we all felt as if we knew him--it was just a matter of becoming reacquainted.  Grayson is a spirit with a purpose, that is for sure.  Before he was even born he was teaching and guiding.  Perhaps the lesson that we are being taught in Grayson's "birth story" is to never give up, to have hope and faith,and always to trust in the Lord in all things.

So, I warn you!  The Grandma Ang "bragging" has begun.  My grandchildren will always be the cutest babies on earth. (Every Grandma says that!)  Grayson is the first of many. . . I know it in my heart and soul.  I don't know why having babies is a challenge for my daughters, but  I do know that with God, all things are possible.  Here are some pictures of our time in Utah for this happy occasion.  Enjoy.

Grayson just looking at his Mom saying, "Thanks Mom!  I Love You!"

Finally snoozed off. . . long day for the little guy!

2 days old. 

Grandma Ang and Auntie Camille having their first chat!

Grandpa Brent bought Grayson an entirely appropriate baby gift. . . a life jacket for the boat!
 He wrote on it:  "Welcome to earth Grayson!  You are going to love it here!  Love, Grandpa B"

Grandpa B and Grayson bonding like only boys can do. . . napping!

Grayson is 1 week old in this "0" onesie. . . a gift from Aunt Lindsay and Aunt Jen.  They are stickers that you can use each month to document the first year of your babies life.  He has already changed in 1 week. . . crazy!

More thoughtful soul searching with my baby.

I think the saying on his shirt is entirely true. . . his Mom does rock!
(Actually Dad rocks too. . . in more ways than one!)

We visited Richfield so my parents could meet their 4th great-grandchild.  Dad is positive that Grayson looks just like him.
  I'd say that currently, there is some resemblance!

Grayson and I on my birthday. . . best gift ever.  I'm going to miss my little guy.

This was the sign in Brittney's hospital room.  So very true!