A pea-sized princess. That’s what she is.
The chunkiest, most delicious, most lovely princess I know.
I had the opportunity a couple of weeks ago to meet my darling friend, Amber’s, new baby. Camera in tow, I was able to capture a few moments between her and her wonderful parents. How I loved these moments ... every one.
Amber and Russell ... you’ll remember them (here and here). They welcomed Miss Eleanor shortly before their first wedding anniversary. And I couldn’t be happier for them. What amazing parents they will be. How blessed Eleanor is to have them - and how blessed they are to have her - as they all travel down the road to Eternity.
Ever since I met Amber, all those years ago, I knew she was something special. I knew that she had a lot to offer. I knew that she had a special spirit about her, that was unmatched. Beauty blooms around her. Everything that is virtuous or lovely, simply thrives.
Knowing these things, I don’t know why I was so surprised.
My mom made the drive to Troy with me that day - the first time either of us had visited the home Amber and Russell have made together. As we pulled up, wondering which apartment could be their's - I noted the only hanging planter in the the complex, and commented, “That must be it.” Mom and I had a private chuckle - and sure enough, I was right. With a personal nameplate and wreath by the door. Evidences of beauty that Amber does best.
And walking in the door? A peaceful, sweet spirit - so powerful, it took my breath away.
I’ve found over the years that I am especially receptive to the undeniable heavenly spirit of babies. Frankly, I don’t understand how a person couldn’t be - but I’ve discovered that I am especially affected by their sweet natures. I certainly felt a tangible spirit in Amber and Russell’s home - that of a loving Heavenly Father. And not simply because of that sweet little babe.
Maybe I wasn’t surprised, after all. Maybe I was in awe. And maybe I wanted that for myself. For my own home.
As I waited for Eleanor to get up from her nap and eat some lunch, I wandered around - capturing a few evidences of her. The things that didn’t have a purpose before her. The pacifiers. The blankets. The burp cloths. I continued to feel of that sweetest spirit. And it was then that I heard the music playing softly in the background.
I know that my Redeemer lives.
What comfort this sweet sentence gives!
He lives - He lives, who once was dead.
He lives, my ever-living Head.
He lives to bless me with His love.
He lives to plead for me above.
He lives, my hungry soul to feed.
He lives to bless in times of need.
He lives to grant me rich supply.
He lives to guide me with His eye.
He lives to comfort me when faint.
He lives to hear my soul’s complaint.
He lives to silence all my fears.
He lives to wipe away my tears.
He lives to calm my troubled heart.
He lives, all blessings to impart.
He lives, my kind, wise heavenly Friend.
He lives and loves me to the end.
He lives, and while He lives, I’ll sing.
He lives, my Prophet, Priest, and King.
He lives and grants me daily breath.
He lives, and I shall conquer death.
He lives, my mansion to prepare.
He lives to bring me safely there.
He lives! All glory to His name!
He lives, my Savior, still the same.
Oh, sweet the joy this sentence gives:
I know that my Redeemer lives!
On such a day, how I could I not deem that sentiment true? When feasting on such a sweet spirit; when reflecting on the miracle of life, itself; when being blessed by a dear friend, who touches my life for good - how can I ever possibly deny it. That we are infinitely blessed by the hands of our Father in Heaven, and by our Savior, Jesus Christ.
What a wonderful afternoon it was. How needed - for me. How I enjoyed capturing every bit of Eleanor - who is as divine and pure as they come. She is destined to be something stunning - inside and out. With the parents that she has ... how could she not be?
This day was one of those that touched my very soul - one of those experiences I will never forget. My heart cannot fathom how incredibly blessed I was for making that drive that day. I thank Amber and Russell for having me (and Russell's parents, as well). Very much.
Dear Eleanor. As I watch you now - fresh from heaven - I cannot help but wonder who you will become. The lives you will bless. The things your hands will do. The hearts you will touch. The world is yours - of that I know. Enjoy your lovely life.
