Emersyn, 

You, sweet one, have been close to my heart through this whole pregnancy. Literally laying across the top of my belly with your head tucked under one rib and your bottom under the other, I felt you constantly. You never wanted to turn head down like Eden. You were content snuggled up close to my heart. Sometimes your hiccups and my heartbeat were even in sync. 

Your Daddy named you. The only thing I've ever heard him say with such certainty other than your name is when he tells me he loves me. I always ask him, "Promise?" "Promise." Never any hesitation or wavering. 

Your name means "brave," something that I'm still learning how to be in this world. I like to think that you taught me a lot of that during pregnancy - your dramatic ((breech)) entrance into the world, short stay in the NICU, and how wide-eyed you already are. You were a constant affirmation that the momentary struggles of pregnancy and a tough delivery would subside and to constantly pursue bravery. We can't wait to see your fight, your passion, and your love as you walk bravely in this world. Love you BIG, little one. 

“If I fly on the wings of the dawn, if I dwell in the remotest part of the sea, even there Your hand will guide me, and Your right hand will hold me fast. If I say, ‘Surely the darkness will overwhelm me and the light around me will be night,’ even the darkness is not dark to You, and the night is as bright as the day. Darkness and light are alike to You.”

— Psalm 139:9-12

These incredible photos were taken by Kati Hewitt Photography.